Colorful Holiday Nonpareil Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These festive almond shortbread bites are a delightful holiday treat, studded with colorful nonpareils for a cheerful touch. With a tender, buttery texture and a hint of almond, they’re perfect for sharing at any celebration.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 teaspoons multi-colored nonpareils
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with plastic wrap, leaving a 1-inch overhang for easy removal, and set aside.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and almond extract. Beat on medium speed until creamy, scraping the bowl frequently to ensure even mixing.
- Step 3: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Then gently stir in the multi-colored nonpareils.
- Step 4: Knead the mixture in the bowl 4-5 times until it forms a smooth ball. Pat the dough evenly into the prepared pan, using the plastic wrap to lift it out once evenly spread.
- Step 5: Cut the dough into 1/2-inch squares. Arrange the squares on ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart. Discard the plastic wrap.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just beginning to brown. Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute the almond extract with vanilla extract and use plain sprinkles instead of nonpareils.
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted to achieve the perfect shortbread texture.
- If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, add an extra 1/8 teaspoon of almond extract.
- These bites can be dipped in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent twist.
Storage
Store these shortbread bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also freeze well—just place them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and, if desired, warm briefly in the oven to refresh their texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter but reduce or omit any additional salt to avoid the shortbread becoming too salty.
What if I don’t have nonpareils? Can I use other toppings?
Absolutely! You can use other sprinkles, chopped nuts, or leave the dough plain for classic shortbread.
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Colorful Holiday Nonpareil Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 40 servings 1x
Description
These festive Holiday Dessert Bites are colorful, buttery shortbread squares speckled with multi-colored nonpareils. Perfect for celebrations and easy to make, they offer a sweet, crunchy treat with a delicate almond flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 teaspoons multi-colored nonpareils
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with plastic wrap, leaving a 1-inch overhang for easy removal later. Set aside.
- Make The Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and almond extract. Beat on medium speed until creamy, scraping the sides regularly for even mixing. Then, reduce the speed to low and add the flour and salt, mixing until everything is well incorporated. Finally, stir in the multi-colored nonpareils to evenly distribute the sprinkles throughout the dough.
- Form And Cut: Knead the dough gently in the bowl 4 to 5 times until it forms a cohesive ball. Next, pat the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, using the plastic wrap to help lift and press the dough into an even layer. Once spread, lift the entire dough from the pan using the plastic wrap.
- Shape The Bites: Place the dough onto a clean surface and cut it into 1/2-inch squares. Arrange the squares on ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart. Discard the plastic wrap used earlier.
- Bake The Cookies: Bake the dough squares in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or until the bottoms just begin to brown lightly. Remove from oven and allow them to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your festive holiday bites!
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
- Using plastic wrap helps to easily remove and transfer the dough without sticking.
- Do not overbake, or the shortbread can become too hard and lose its delicate texture.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: holiday dessert, shortbread bites, almond extract cookies, festive cookies, colorful sprinkles, easy holiday treats
