Description
These Rainbow Shortbread Bites are buttery, tender, and studded with colorful sprinkles that make them as fun to look at as they are to eat. With a delicate almond or vanilla flavor and a crisp buttery texture, these bite-sized cookies are perfect for festive occasions or everyday treats. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, they deliver a delightful balance of sweetness and crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Shortbread Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp almond or vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 tsp sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpat mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Line Square Pan: Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting of the dough later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Then add the almond or vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Sprinkles: Lower the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour, salt, and sprinkles. Mix until just incorporated. Press the dough into a ball and knead gently a couple of times until the dough comes together evenly.
- Shape and Chill Dough: Press the dough evenly into the prepared square pan. Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing and baking.
- Cut Dough into Squares: Use the parchment overhang to lift the chilled dough out of the pan. Cut the dough into 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) squares using a sharp knife or bench scraper.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the cut squares on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each piece. Bake one sheet at a time for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cookie bottoms are lightly browned. While one sheet bakes, keep the other chilled to maintain dough firmness.
- Cool and Store: Allow the baked shortbread bites to cool completely on the baking sheets. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- Chilling the dough before baking prevents spreading and helps maintain the square shape.
- You can substitute sprinkles with mini chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts for variation.
- Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven; watch for lightly browned bottoms as an indicator.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American