Christmas Shortbread Cookies with Sprinkles Recipe

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There’s something wonderfully nostalgic and heartwarming about a batch of Christmas Shortbread Cookies with Sprinkles Recipe fresh from the oven. These buttery, tender cookies are the perfect festive treat that melt in your mouth while showcasing cheerful, colorful sprinkles that instantly brighten up any holiday gathering. Simple enough to whip up in a jiffy but special enough to share with friends and family, this recipe truly captures the magic of the season in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need to create these delightful Christmas shortbread cookies are a few simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to form a buttery, tender base topped with festive flair. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s the richness of the butter, the delicate sweetness of powdered sugar, or the festive pop of colorful sprinkles that make these cookies truly sing.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter ensures your cookies bake up tender and buttery without spreading too much.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This fine sugar blends smoothly into the dough, giving a delicate sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that shapes your cookies and balances the butter’s richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch brightens the flavors, cutting through the sweetness perfectly.
• Christmas sprinkles, as needed: The festive finishing touch that adds a splash of color and fun to every bite.

How to Make Christmas Shortbread Cookies with Sprinkles Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 325°F (165°C). This lower temperature helps the cookies bake evenly, achieving that classic soft, crumbly shortbread texture without browning too quickly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat your softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it introduces air that makes the cookies tender and gives them their signature melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together. Be gentle here – overmixing can make the cookies tough, and we want every bite to be soft and crumbly.

Step 4: Shape Your Cookies

Roll out your dough on a lightly floured surface to about a quarter-inch thickness. Then, choose your favorite festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes that celebrate the season, whether it’s stars, trees, or classic circles. Carefully transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Before baking, press the Christmas sprinkles gently onto the tops of each cookie to ensure they stick and bring that joyful color.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your cookies into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for edges that are just set and a slight golden-brown appearance on the bottoms. Baking just right ensures that soft, buttery texture that’s essential to this Christmas Shortbread Cookies with Sprinkles Recipe.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Once baked, move your cookies to a wire rack to cool thoroughly. This step helps them firm up just enough to hold their shape and lets the flavors settle, readying them for presentation or storage.

How to Serve Christmas Shortbread Cookies with Sprinkles Recipe

Garnishes

While the sprinkles are the star garnish here, feel free to add a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving for an extra touch of snow-like magic. A drizzle of white chocolate can also add a lovely contrast of flavors and textures if you’re feeling a little fancy.

Side Dishes

These delightful cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, spiced chai, or a fragrant cup of holiday tea. Together, they create an inviting break during festive celebrations or a perfect afternoon treat by the fireplace.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Christmas Shortbread Cookies with Sprinkles Recipe on a festive platter or in a tiered cookie stand to create a visually stunning centerpiece at your holiday party. Wrap a few shaped cookies in clear cellophane and tie with a colorful ribbon for charming edible gifts that impress and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and tender for up to one week. Placing parchment paper between layers prevents sticking and preserves their delicate texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either baked or unbaked. For baked cookies, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a sealed container or bag. For dough, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw fully before baking or serving.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your cookies warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. This gently revives their soft texture and buttery aroma without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid the cookies becoming too salty. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final flavor.

Will the sprinkles melt or bleed during baking?

Most Christmas sprinkles hold up well at 325°F, especially if pressed gently onto the dough before baking. If you want to be cautious, add them halfway through baking or right after they come out of the oven.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.

How can I keep these cookies soft?

Be sure not to overbake. Remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges are set. Storing them in an airtight container also helps maintain softness.

What other types of decorations can I use?

You can swap Christmas sprinkles for colored sanding sugar, chopped nuts, or even a light glaze with colored sugar crystals for different looks and textures.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing these Christmas Shortbread Cookies with Sprinkles Recipe during the holiday season. They’re easy to make, irresistibly buttery, and bring a touch of festive cheer every time. Whether it’s for a party, gift, or a simple homemade treat, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your celebrations. Give them a try—you might just find yourself baking them year after year!

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