Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies
Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies: The holiday season brings joy, warmth, and, most importantly, the delightful aromas of baking in our kitchens. One of the most cherished recipes you can try during this festive time is Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies. These crunchy and spiced treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends, adding a touch of sweetness to your holiday festivities. With their buttery texture and a hint of spice, they are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.
Why you’ll love this recipe
There are countless cookie recipes out there, but Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies stand out for several reasons. First, the balance of crunchiness and softness makes each bite a wonderful experience. The blend of warm spices gives it a delightful holiday twist that enhances the traditional taste of shortbread.
Moreover, this recipe is simple and perfect for bakers of all skill levels. You don’t need to be a master baker to create these delicious cookies. They require only a few basic ingredients, making them easy to whip up on a busy holiday afternoon. Additionally, these cookies store well, allowing you to prepare them in advance for festivities or give as gifts!
How to prepare Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies
Preparing Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies is straightforward and fun. In just a few steps, you will transform simple ingredients into a crunchy, spiced dessert that embodies the spirit of Christmas. Below, you will find everything you need to know, from the ingredients to the instructions.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
- Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This could take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Make sure to break any clumps in the flour.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies tender.
If you’re using nuts, fold them into the dough at this stage to give your cookies an extra crunch.
Once the dough is combined, shape it into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge and slice it into 1/4-inch thick cookies. Place them on the lined baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
Sprinkle a little granulated sugar over each cookie for added sweetness and a crunchy texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye, as baking times may vary based on your oven.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to serve Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but presenting them in a lovely way can enhance their charm. Here are some ideas for serving:
Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread or peppermint bark for a festive dessert table.
Gift Giving: Package a dozen in a cute box or tin, lined with colorful tissue paper, to make a thoughtful homemade gift for neighbors and friends.
Tea Time: Serve these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They are a splendid snack for afternoon tea or holiday gatherings.
Decoration: Add a splash of color by drizzling some melted chocolate on top of the cookies once they are cooled.
How to store Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies
Storing these cookies correctly will ensure that they maintain their crunch and flavor. Here are some tips for optimal storage:
Airtight Container: After the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Room Temperature: These cookies can be stored at room temperature for about a week. Make sure to place them in a cool, dry place away from any heat sources.
Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, these cookies freeze quite well. Wrap individual cookies or bags of cookies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Preparation tips Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies
Here are some handy tips to ensure your cookies are the best they can be:
Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature but not melted. This gives the cookies the right texture and helps them rise.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
Exact Measurements: For best results, use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to measure your ingredients precisely. Baking is a science, and accuracy is key!
Add a Personal Touch: Feel free to experiment with spices or extracts. If you love the flavor of cloves, try adding a pinch for an extra holiday kick!
Variation (if applicable)
While the classic version of Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies is fantastic on its own, there are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste:
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or orange zest for a fresh flavor that brightens up the spices.
Spiced Up: For those who love spice, increase the amount of cinnamon or add other spices like allspice for a different flavor profile.
Decorative Glaze: Create a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk to drizzle over the cookies for a decorative finish.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have. Just omit the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Q2: How can I tell when my cookies are done?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges. They may look a bit soft but will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary.
Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Just let it thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.
Q4: What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, you can add a tiny bit of cold water or milk, a teaspoon at a time, while mixing. This will help the dough come together without altering the flavor.
Q5: Can I substitute other types of flour?
While all-purpose flour is ideal for this recipe to achieve the best texture, you can try using gluten-free flour blends if needed. Just make sure to follow the specific instructions for that flour.
In conclusion, Camille’s Christmas Shortbread Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their crunchy texture and warm spices are sure to make them a beloved treat for family and friends. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can bring a taste of the holidays to your home. Happy baking!
