Are you looking to make this holiday season even more special with delectable Christmas treats? Look no further! Our Christmas Shortbread Cookies recipe will not only tantalize your taste buds but also bring festive cheer to your home. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that's both delightful and easy to follow.
Ingredients for Christmas Shortbread Cookies
To start, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of unsalted butter - Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup of granulated sugar - For that perfect sweetness.
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour - To create the ideal shortbread texture.
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch - For added lightness.
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract - Enhances the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt - Balances the sweetness.
Instructions for Preparing Christmas Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the 2 cups of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
- Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Sift the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until the dough comes together and forms a ball. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness, usually about 1/2 inch. Use festive cookie cutters to cut out various shapes.
Step 7: Bake
- Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar for that extra Christmas touch.
Now that you have this delightful Christmas Shortbread cookie recipe, you can impress your loved ones with a batch of freshly baked, homemade treats. These cookies are not only delicious but also make for great gifts during the holiday season. Share the joy of baking and enjoy the magic of Christmas with every bite!