Ah, the festive season is upon us, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than with a delightful treat that embodies the flavors of Christmas. This recipe for Christmas Almond Shortbread is a perfect blend of buttery richness and almond goodness, making it an ideal addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea by the fire or given as a heartfelt homemade gift, these delicate shortbread cookies are sure to impress. Let’s get baking!
### Christmas Almond Shortbread
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: sliced almonds and powdered sugar for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture of the shortbread.
3. Add the almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix well. The almond extract provides a fragrant nuttiness that elevates the overall flavor profile of the shortbread.
4. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this may toughen the shortbread.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. You can use cookie cutters to create festive shapes like stars, hearts, or trees. Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
6. For an extra touch of elegance, gently press a few sliced almonds onto the surface of each cookie before baking. This adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal to the finished shortbread.
7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Remember that shortbread should not brown too much, as it is meant to be pale and delicate.
8. Once baked, let the shortbread cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired for a snowy finish.
9. Your Christmas Almond Shortbread is now ready to be enjoyed! Store these delightful cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days. They also make wonderful holiday gifts when wrapped in festive packaging.
With its buttery crumb and almond-infused aroma, this Christmas Almond Shortbread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re baking them for a cookie exchange or simply to enjoy at home, these festive cookies are sure to bring joy to all who indulge in their deliciousness. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the spirit of the holidays inspire you to create something truly special this season. Happy baking!
