2tablespoonsholiday nonpareilsplus more for sprinkling
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup powdered sugar, and ¼ cup granulated sugar with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Mix in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon almond extract until well combined.
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in 2 tablespoons of holiday nonpareils with a rubber spatula.
Line a 9 x 13-inch baking sheet with two layers of parchment paper, laying them in opposite directions (one horizontally and one vertically) to ensure easy removal. To keep the parchment in place, you can lightly spray the pan and the layers of parchment with cooking spray. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet, and use your hands, a rolling pin, or the bottom of a flat measuring cup to evenly press and level the dough, ensuring it reaches the edges of the pan.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Cut the dough into a grid pattern using a sharp knife, creating ½ - 1-inch squares. Carefully press each square into a shallow plate of holiday nonpareils, ensuring the tops get extra nonpareils. Place the squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving ½ inch gap between each one.
Bake for 13 - 16 minutes or until the edges start turning golden. Be careful not to overbake.
Allow the shortbread bites to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve your festive square shortbread bites, and ENJOY!
Notes
- Make sure your butter is softened, not melted. Softened butter helps the dough come together smoothly and gives the shortbread its characteristic tender texture.
- When combining the AP flour with the butter mixture, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can make the shortbread tough rather than tender.
- Shortbread should remain pale with just a hint of golden color at the edges. Overbaking can result in dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges begin to turn golden.