Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites Recipe

Introduction
The holiday season calls for delicious treats that capture the magic of Christmas! These Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites are the perfect addition to your holiday baking list. Bite-sized, buttery, and topped with festive sprinkles, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or looking for edible gift ideas, these cookie bites are a must-try.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appeal: The colorful sprinkles make them perfect for holiday celebrations.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything in your pantry.
• Bite-Sized Fun: Great for snacking or sharing with loved ones.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies stay fresh for days, making them perfect for early holiday prep.

---

Ingredients

To make these irresistible Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites, you’ll need:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter – softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Holiday sprinkles – red, green, and white for the festive touch

---

Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.

Step 3: Shape the Cookie Bites

• Roll the dough into small balls, about 1/2 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
• Gently press holiday sprinkles onto the tops of each ball.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

---

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookie Bites

1. Use Quality Butter: The butter is the star of the show, so opt for high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
2. Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
3. Customize the Sprinkles: Swap the holiday sprinkles for colors that match other occasions like Easter or birthdays.
4. Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

---

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Flavor Enhancements: Mix in a hint of almond extract or grated orange zest for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

---

Perfect Pairings

Enjoy these Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites with:

• A warm cup of hot cocoa.
• A festive eggnog latte.
• A refreshing glass of sparkling cider during holiday gatherings.

---

Wrapping It Up! 🎁

These Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites are the ultimate holiday treat. They’re easy to make, delightfully buttery, and irresistibly festive. Share them at your next holiday party, add them to your Christmas cookie exchange, or gift them in cute jars tied with ribbon.

Make this recipe a part of your holiday tradition, and watch your family and friends come back for more!

Don’t forget to share your creations! Tag us on social media with your festive cookie bites and spread the holiday cheer.

---

Serving and Storage Tips for Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites

Serving Tips

1. Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for serving at holiday parties, family gatherings, or cookie exchanges. Arrange them in a festive cookie tin or platter for a beautiful presentation.
2. Pair with Holiday Beverages: Serve alongside hot chocolate, eggnog, or a warm mug of spiced cider for a cozy holiday treat experience.
3. Create Gift Jars: Package your cookies in clear jars tied with ribbons or twine for a thoughtful homemade gift idea that’s both personal and delicious.

Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature: Store your Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps the cookies soft and fresh.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookie bites. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
3. Avoid Moisture: To prevent the cookies from becoming soggy, always ensure the container is airtight and dry. Adding a piece of wax paper between layers can help maintain their texture.
4. Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to bring back their fresh-baked taste.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, your Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites will stay festive and delicious throughout the holiday season!

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cookies up to a week in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them and enjoy them throughout the holiday season.

2. Can I use a different type of sprinkle?
Absolutely! While festive red, green, and white sprinkles are perfect for Christmas, feel free to use any sprinkles or decorations that suit the occasion. You could also try sanding sugar or colored sugar crystals for extra sparkle.

3. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these shortbread cookie bites gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.

4. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Roll the dough into balls, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or bag. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen cookie dough balls directly on the baking sheet and bake as usual, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Print