Description
These Christmas shortbread cookies are rich, buttery, and delightfully simple to make. Perfectly tender and adorned with festive sprinkles, they bring classic holiday cheer with every bite. This recipe offers an easy, timeless treat that’s ideal for holiday gatherings or gifting during the Christmas season.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Decoration
- Christmas sprinkles, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to allow it to reach the perfect temperature for baking shortbread cookies evenly.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, creamy, and well combined, ensuring a tender cookie texture.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed mixture. Stir until a smooth dough forms, being careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes. Place the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Add Sprinkles: Gently press Christmas sprinkles onto the tops of each cookie, ensuring they stick to the dough for a festive look.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cookies are just set with a light golden edge.
- Cool Completely: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before serving to ensure they firm up and sprinkles set perfectly.
Notes
- For firmer cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling and cutting shapes.
- Use room temperature butter to ensure proper creaming with the sugar.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Sprinkles can be substituted with colored sanding sugar or left plain for a classic look.
- If dough is too sticky, lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin.