Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites
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Christmas is the perfect time to indulge in delightful treats that evoke warmth and joy, and those Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites are a prime example. Easy to whip up and made with only four ingredients, this simple yet satisfying cookie recipe is ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. Reminiscing about my own holiday baking traditions always brings a smile, especially when I consider how these buttery bites become an instant hit with family and friends. With a sprinkle of festive cheer, these cookies are not just a treat; they create memories that last a lifetime.
What Makes These Cookie Bites a Must-Try
You’ll find countless reasons to bake these Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites. For starters, they are incredibly quick to make! With minimal prep time, you can have these scrumptious treats ready in no time. Whether it’s a festive cookie exchange or a family gathering, this recipe shines during the holidays, bringing everyone together.
“I made these for our annual holiday party, and they vanished in minutes! So easy and delicious!” — Happy Baker
The Baking Process Unveiled
Creating these delightful cookie bites is as straightforward as it gets. With just four ingredients, the process is simple while delivering a satisfying homemade taste that’s hard to resist. Here’s what you can expect with the steps involved:
- Combine Ingredients: You’ll start by mixing the butter, sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
- Form the Dough: Gradually incorporate the flour and mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Prepare for Baking: After chilling, cut the dough into bite-sized squares for baking.
Now that you’re aware of the process, let’s move on to what you’ll need.
Gather These Essential Ingredients
Here’s your shopping list for making these delightful cookie bites:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3-4 tablespoons sprinkles (optional, but fun!)
Feel free to substitute with margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, or use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Baking
Ready to bring these Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites to life? Here’s how to make them:
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Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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In a bowl of an electric mixer, combine the cold unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until it’s creamy, scraping down the bowl as needed.
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With the mixer off, slowly add the all-purpose flour bit by bit. Mix until the mixture forms a soft dough.
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If you want some sparkle, now’s the time to add the sprinkles. Beat again to incorporate them fully.
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Use your hands to shape the dough into a ball, then press it evenly into the prepared baking pan.
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Chill the dough in the fridge for about an hour. This helps with cutting perfect cookie bites later!
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Once chilled, lift the dough out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into bite-sized squares.
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Arrange the squares on an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving about an inch between them.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, keeping a close eye on them—remove them from the oven as soon as the bottoms start to brown.
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Enjoy! Let them cool before diving in!
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Cookies
These shortbread bites are perfect on their own, but why not elevate your cookie experience? Serve them on a festive platter with holiday-themed decorations like pinecones and twinkling lights. Pair them with hot cocoa or a rich cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make excellent gifts when wrapped in a mason jar with a ribbon.
Storing Your Cookie Treasures
To keep your cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container once cooled completely. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, simply freeze your cut squares before baking. Just remember to add a little extra baking time if they go into the oven straight from the freezer.
Tips to Ensure Cookie Success
Here are some chef secrets that will help you nail this recipe every time:
- Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping the butter cold helps incorporate air into the dough, making the cookies light and tender.
- Watch the Oven: These cookies can brown quickly, so stay nearby during the last few minutes of baking.
- Mix by Hand: After incorporating the flour, consider mixing by hand to avoid overworking the dough.
Add a Twist with Variations
Want to make your shortbread bites unique? Here are some fun ideas:
- Flavor It Up: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist.
- Add Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon for a fresh citrus flavor.
- Different Sprinkles: Use seasonal sprinkles or edible glitter for a magical touch.
Your Questions Answered
How long do these cookies last?
These treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week, or frozen for up to three months.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! For those with gluten restrictions, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll still achieve cookie perfection.
What’s the prep time for these cookies?
A mere 15-20 minutes of prep time is all you need before they head into the oven.
With these tips, your Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites will become a beloved tradition. Each bite is a little reminder of the joy and warmth that the holidays bring. Happy baking!
Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl of an electric mixer, combine the cold unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy, scraping down the bowl as needed.
- With the mixer off, slowly add the all-purpose flour bit by bit. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- If using, add the sprinkles and beat again to incorporate fully.
- Shape the dough into a ball, then press it evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for about an hour.
- Once chilled, lift the dough out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into bite-sized squares.
- Arrange the squares on an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving about an inch between them.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on them—remove as soon as the bottoms start to brown.
- Enjoy! Let them cool before diving in.
