Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These Sugar Plum Star Shortbread Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate! With their rich, buttery texture and the sweet, subtle flavors of dried plums and nutmeg, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Adorned with a sprinkle of colorful sugar, they’re not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped dried plums (or sugar plums)
- Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a perfect base for your cookies.
- Add the vanilla extract, blending it in thoroughly to ensure each bite has that warm, comforting flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground nutmeg, which will add a subtle spiciness that’s delightful.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter mixture, stirring gently until the dough starts to come together.
- Next, fold in the chopped dried plums, distributing them evenly throughout the dough for bursts of flavor.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness, making sure it’s not too thick so that the cookies bake evenly.
- Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out your cookies and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or whimsical sprinkles on top of each cookie to add a festive touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, filling your kitchen with that heavenly scent.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, try substituting the dried plums with other dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. Don’t be shy with the colored sugar — let your creativity shine! These cookies are perfect for gift-giving, so bake a batch and share the joy with your loved ones.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes basic baking techniques such as creaming, which helps create a fluffy, airy texture in the cookies. Rolling out the dough requires a gentle touch to ensure even thickness for consistent baking. Be cautious not to overwork the dough; this keeps your shortbread tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.
How should I store the cookies? Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can freeze them as well; just make sure to layer them carefully with parchment paper.
Conclusion
With the crunch of the edges and the tenderness of each bite, these Sugar Plum Star Shortbread Cookies are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition. Whether you’re baking solo or gathering friends for a festive cookie-decorating session, these delightful treats will bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy every sweet moment!