Holiday Shortbread Tidbits

 Holiday Shortbread Tidbits

Shortbread has always been a favorite in our home; hubby is Scottish and it's his favorite!  I made many batches of these little bites this holiday and thought it would be a good recipe to share.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 tsp. Almond extract

2 1/2 cups King Arthur all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. Kosher salt

2 T + 2 tsp. multi-colored nonpareils

Step 1

Heat oven to 325-degrees F.  Line a 8-inch square baking pan with plastic food wrap, leaving at least 1-inch overhang.  Line baking sheets with parchment paper.  Set aside.

Step 2

In a stand mixing bowl, combine the butter, sugar and almond extract.  Beat at medium speed, scrapping the bowl often, until creamy.  Reduce speed to low add flour, salt, and nonpareils.  Mix until combined.

Step 3

Knead the mixture 4 to 5 times in the bowl until dough forms a ball.  Pat the dough evenly into the prepared pan--I used a measuring cup to press the dough firmly into the pan.  Use the plastic wrap to life dough from pan.  Cut dough into 1/2-3/4-inch squares.  Gently place squares onto parchment-lined baking sheets.  Bake 13-15 minutes or until bottoms are just beginning to brown.

These tidbits make a great gift filled in a decorative glass or mug for neighbors, teachers, or importantly, Front-Line Workers! Enjoy!