Shortbread Sugar Cookie Bites

There is no better bite-sized treat to brighten your holiday cookie platter than these Shortbread Sugar Cookie Bites. With their perfectly buttery texture, subtle sweetness, and festive nonpareil sprinkles, they are irresistible little morsels that melt in your mouth. They come together simply with classic shortbread ingredients enhanced by a touch of vanilla and the delightful crunch of tiny sprinkles, making them ideal for gifting or sharing at celebrations.

You will adore how these delicate cookie bites balance slight crispness with tender crumb, while the sprinkles add cheerful color and a light crunch. This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum charm and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (227g) salted butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup (106g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (29g) powdered sugar
• Pinch table salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups (320g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons nonpareil sprinkles

How to Create Your Shortbread Sugar Cookie Bites

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened salted butter with granulated sugar and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. This creaming step is key to tender cookies and good rise.

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Salt

Add in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing just to combine for flavor balance.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch. Slowly add this to the butter mixture while mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.

Step 4: Add the Sprinkles

Gently fold 2 tablespoons of nonpareil sprinkles into the dough to distribute color and crunch evenly.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Press the dough onto a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan, creating an even layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to firm up the dough for cleaner cutting.

Step 6: Cut the Cookie Bites

Using the edges of the parchment paper, lift the dough from the pan and cut into bite-sized ½-inch squares with a sharp knife.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Place the squares onto parchment-lined baking sheets about 1 inch apart. Press the remaining tablespoon of sprinkles onto the tops for added decoration.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake cookie bites for 10-12 minutes, just until the edges begin to lightly brown. Keep a close eye to prevent overbaking.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.

My Best Tips for Shortbread Sugar Cookie Bites

Use Room Temperature Butter

Softened butter creams more easily with sugars for better texture.

Cornstarch Adds Tenderness

Adding cornstarch lightens shortbread’s crumb for melt-in-the-mouth softness.

Chill Dough Thoroughly

Chilling helps cookies keep their shape and prevents spreading.

Cut Evenly Sized Pieces

Uniform cookie sizes ensure even baking and attractive presentation.

Monitor Closely When Baking

Small cookies brown fast; remove before edges turn too dark for delicate texture.

Delicious Variations to Try

Chocolate-Dipped Bites

Dip cooled cookie bites halfway into melted chocolate for a decadent treat.

Citrus Zest

Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, fresh flavor twist.

Almond Extract

Replace or add half the vanilla extract with almond for a nutty aroma.

Sprinkle Mix

Use holiday-themed colored sprinkles or edible glitter for festive occasions.

Cocoa Shortbread

Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to dry ingredients for chocolate shortbread bites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do these cookie bites last?

Stored airtight, they stay fresh at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make the dough ahead and bake later?

Yes, dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days before baking.

Why add cornstarch to shortbread?

Cornstarch gives the cookies a softer, less crumbly texture.

Can I use unsalted butter instead?

Yes, but add a pinch more salt to balance flavor.

Are sprinkles necessary?

Sprinkles add festive color and light crunch but can be omitted for plain shortbread bites.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend suitable for baking.

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