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Shortbread Cookies Recipe For Christmas

These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies are a timeless Christmas favorite! With their delicate crumb, rich buttery flavor, and festive shapes, they’re perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights by the fire. Decorate them with sprinkles, drizzle with chocolate, or keep them classic — either way, they’ll bring holiday cheer to every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 24 Cookies
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Optional: festive sprinkles melted chocolate, or colored sugar for decoration

Method
 

Cream Butter & Sugar:
  1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add Vanilla & Dry Ingredients:
  1. Mix in the vanilla extract. Then add the flour and salt, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
Chill the Dough:
  1. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Roll & Cut:
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into festive shapes using cookie cutters.
Bake:
  1. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool & Decorate:
  1. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Dip in melted chocolate, add sprinkles, or dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch!

Notes

  • For an extra buttery flavor, use European-style butter.
  • Chill the dough longer if it feels too soft to roll out.
  • You can add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a subtle nutty twist.