Rainbow Shortbread Bites Recipe
Delight in these colorful Rainbow Shortbread Bites, a buttery and tender treat bursting with vibrant sprinkles. Perfect as a festive snack or sweet gift, these easy-to-make cookies combine classic shortbread richness with a fun twist of colorful sprinkles for a delightful crunch and cheerful appearance.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes per sheet (total approx. 30 minutes)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 36 shortbread bites (1/2-inch squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or Silpat mats to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8″ x 8″ square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang on the sides for easy lifting of the dough later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter together with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and creamy. Add the almond or vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Sprinkles: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, salt, and sprinkles into the butter mixture. Mix just until the dough comes together. Then press the mixture into a ball and knead gently a couple of times to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Shape and Chill Dough: Evenly press the dough into the prepared square pan, smoothing the top surface. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to firm up the dough before cutting.
- Cut Dough into Squares: Using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the chilled dough out of the pan. Cut the dough into 1/2-inch squares with a sharp knife or bench scraper.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the cut dough squares on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart. Bake one sheet at a time for approximately 15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. While one sheet bakes, keep the other sheet chilled in the refrigerator.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the shortbread bites to cool completely on the baking sheets before serving or storing. Enjoy your colorful, buttery bites alongside tea or coffee!
Notes
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract based on your preference.
- Use colorful sprinkles to make the shortbread visually vibrant and festive.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Chilling the dough before cutting helps maintain the shape and makes cutting easier.
- Monitor baking closely to prevent over-browning as oven temperatures may vary.
- Store baked shortbread bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Keywords: rainbow shortbread, shortbread bites, sprinkles cookies, colorful baking, buttery cookies, easy shortbread, festive treats
Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/rainbow-shortbread-bites-recipe/
