A plate of festive Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, shaped in stars and circles, with a glossy purple glaze drizzled over the top. The cookies are lightly golden around the edges and garnished with a hint of sparkle, making them perfect for holiday celebrations

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies: A Festive Treat! 🎄🍪

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Add a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations with these buttery, fruity Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. They’re soft, sweet, and perfect for sharing. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to create your festive masterpiece!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp almond extract (optional, for added flavor)
  • ½ tsp sugar plum extract or sugar plum jam (see substitutes below!)

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tsp milk
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Purple food coloring (optional, for a festive look)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

  1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 🧑‍🍳
  2. Next, in a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set this aside.
  3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy and creamy.
  4. Gradually add the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and sugar plum flavoring or jam. Continue mixing until well combined.

2. Shape and Bake

  1. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  2. Then, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
  3. Use your favorite cookie cutters (stars, hearts, or circles) to create shapes. 🌟
  4. Carefully place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are slightly golden.
  5. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Add the Festive Glaze (Optional)

  1. While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
  2. For a festive look, add a few drops of purple food coloring and stir until evenly blended. 🎨
  3. Finally, drizzle the glaze over the cookies or dip them to create a glossy finish. ✨

Tips for Success

  • Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
  • Substitutes for Sugar Plum Flavoring: Use apricot jam, mixed berry preserves, or a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg for a similar flavor.

Serving and Storing

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week. They also make excellent edible gifts for friends and family.

Spread the Holiday Cheer!

Don’t forget to share your creations with us! Use these hashtags when posting your cookies on social media:
#RecipesShine #HolidayBaking #FestiveCookies #SugarPlumShortbread

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