Looking to add a touch of festive deliciousness to your holiday season? Look no further than these scrumptious Christmas Shortbread Cookies! Straight from the Yummiest Food Cookbook, this recipe will fill your home with the warm and comforting aroma of sweet buttery treats. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with loved ones, these cookies are a must-have for any cozy winter day.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sprinkles, icing, or other decorations (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes from the dough. You can go for classic Christmas shapes like stars, Christmas trees, or candy canes.
7. Carefully transfer the cookies to the lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
8. If you wish to add decorations, now is the time! Sprinkle some colored sugar, add festive sprinkles, or go all out with icing details.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Store your Christmas Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crispy. They also make delightful gifts when presented in a charming tin or wrapped in a cute cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, participating in a cookie exchange, or simply want to treat yourself to a delightful homemade dessert, these Christmas Shortbread Cookies will be a hit. The simplicity of the recipe combined with the irresistible buttery flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser for all ages. So, roll up your sleeves, turn on some festive music, and get baking these delightful cookies that embody the spirit of the season. Enjoy and happy baking!
