Delicious Festive Shortbread Recipe for the Holidays

Indulge in the buttery goodness of festive shortbread cookies this holiday season. This classic recipe combines simple ingredients to create delicate and melt-in-your-mouth treats. With a hint of vanilla and a dusting of powdered sugar, these shortbread cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. Whether you're gifting them to loved ones or enjoying them yourself, these festive shortbread cookies are sure to spread joy and cheer.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup festive sprinkles or colored sugar (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
6. If desired, fold in the festive sprinkles or colored sugar for an extra festive touch.
7. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a minute.
8. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness using a rolling pin.
9. Using cookie cutters, cut out the desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Gather the dough scraps, re-roll, and cut out more shapes until all the dough is used.
11. Bake the shortbread cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
12. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar, if desired, for a festive finishing touch.
14. Store the festive shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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