As I unwrapped the colorful nonpareils, a wave of festive nostalgia washed over me. The delight of creating treats like Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites is an experience cherished every holiday season. Simple to whip up and utterly enchanting, these little bites are a joy to share, making them perfect for holiday gifting. The best part? There’s no rolling or cutting involved, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. With their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the option to top them with a magical pink glaze, you’re sure to impress everyone around the table. Are you ready to elevate your cookie game and spread some holiday cheer?
Why Are These Shortbread Bites Magical?
Simplicity makes them a breeze to prepare, with no rolling or cutting needed! Buttery goodness ensures each bite melts in your mouth, delighting both young and old. Festive appeal shines through with vibrant nonpareils and an optional pink glaze, making them perfect for gifting. Versatile enough to swap flavors, you can easily customize them to suit your taste. Whether for a holiday celebration or simply as a sweet indulgence, these Sugar Cookie Cheesecake inspired treats are a surefire crowd-pleaser!
Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites Ingredients
Discover the delightful components of these magical treats!
For the Shortbread
- Very soft butter – This is key to achieving richness and tenderness; unsalted butter is best for optimal flavor control.
- Granulated sugar – Provides the necessary sweetness and lightness; can substitute with a sugar alternative for a guilt-free option.
- Almond extract – Offers a lovely nutty aroma, but feel free to swap it for vanilla extract if nut allergies are a concern.
- Vanilla extract – Essential for bringing depth to the cookies’ flavor; a classic addition for shortbread.
- Food coloring (optional) – Adds a playful pink touch; leave it out for a traditional look.
- All-purpose flour – The foundation of the shortbread; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative.
- Kosher salt – Balances the sweetness; regular salt works just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
For the Garnish
- Multi-colored nonpareils – These whimsical toppings not only look fantastic but also add that festive flair; colored sprinkles can be a fun replacement if desired.
For the Optional Glaze
- Powdered sugar – A must for sweetness and creating that lovely glaze; it can be adjusted based on your desired sweetness level.
- Half & half – Makes the glaze creamy without being too heavy; feel free to use milk for a lighter version.
- Almond & vanilla extracts – Adding these enhances the flavor profile of your glaze, tying it all together with deliciousness.
Bring some festive magic to your holiday gatherings with these Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While the oven warms, grab a 9-inch square baking pan and line it with foil, leaving some excess hanging over the edges for easy removal. Gently spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites release effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine very soft butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Next, stir in the almond and vanilla extracts for flavor. If you’re adding food coloring, fold it in now until the desired shade is reached, then gradually mix in the flour and kosher salt until the dough appears crumbly. Finally, gently stir in most of the multi-colored nonpareils, reserving a sprinkle for topping.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Transfer the crumbly dough into the prepared baking pan, using your fingers or a spatula to press it down into an even layer, ensuring the corners are well packed. If you’re skipping the glaze later, sprinkle the reserved nonpareils on top now for a festive touch. Once shaped, place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for 10 minutes, which helps the shortbread hold its shape during baking.
Step 4: Cut and Chill Again
After chilling, carefully lift the dough from the pan using the foil edges. Cut the dough into 1-inch squares using a sharp knife, making clean cuts to prevent crumbling. Once cut, transfer the squares to a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes. This ensures they maintain their form while baking, helping your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites turn out perfectly.
Step 5: Bake
Once chilled, place the squares in your preheated oven and bake for 13-18 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as you want the centers to remain soft. When done, remove the pan from the oven, and let the shortbread bites cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, allowing their rich flavors to develop.
Step 6: (Optional) Prepare the Glaze
If you choose to add the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, half & half, and a splash of almond and vanilla extracts in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Once your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle it over them for a lovely finish. Sprinkle the remaining nonpareils on top while the glaze is still wet for that delightful festive touch. Allow the glaze to set for 3-4 hours before serving or packaging.
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites are a fantastic choice for meal prep, especially during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in the refrigerator, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful. If you opt to bake them ahead, simply do so and allow the bites to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their delightful texture, place a piece of parchment paper between layers. Finally, when you’re ready to serve, just glaze the bites and let them set for a few hours for that magical, festive touch—perfect for impressing your guests with minimal fuss!
What to Serve with Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites
As you delight in the festive magic of Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites, consider these delightful accompaniments that will take your holiday gathering to the next level.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich and velvety hot cocoa with whipped cream provides a cozy drink option that pairs beautifully with the sweet buttery bites.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices and comforting flavors of chai tea create an aromatic balance that enhances the sweetness of the shortbread.
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Fresh Berries: Brightly colored strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness, contrasting nicely with the creamy texture of the shortbread.
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Peppermint Ice Cream: A scoop of cool peppermint ice cream brings a holiday twist to your dessert table, making every bite feel like a seasonal celebration.
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Giftable Treat Boxes: Present your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites alongside other bite-sized delights in decorative boxes. This makes not only for a visually stunning gift but also allows for delightful variety.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers a light and fresh option to balance the richness of the shortbread bites while maintaining a celebratory feel.
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Maple-Glazed Nuts: The crunch and sweetness of candied nuts drizzled with maple syrup add both texture and flavor, pairing delightfully with your buttery cookies.
Each of these suggestions enhances the experience of enjoying these enchanting sugar-dusted delights, ensuring your holiday table is as magical as it is delicious!
Expert Tips for Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is very soft to achieve a creamy dough. If needed, leave it at room temperature for a bit before mixing.
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Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing once you add the flour; this can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the flour disappears into the dough.
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Chilling Matters: Remember to chill the cut squares before baking! This step helps maintain their shape and ensures a perfect bake for your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; they should be lightly golden but still soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
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Storage Tip: Store your baked shortbread in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. They also freeze wonderfully for up to three months.
Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on these delightful treats; your creativity will bring new flavors to life!
- Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens each bite. The zing will dance on your taste buds!
- Nutty Upgrade: Fold in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for an extra crunch. Nuts not only add texture but also enrich the overall flavor.
- Flavor Change: Swap almond extract with peppermint extract for a holiday peppermint delight. This cozy flavor makes them perfect for winter celebrations!
- Chocolatey Bliss: Use mini chocolate chips or chocolate sprinkles instead of nonpareils. Who can resist the magic of chocolate?
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate those with dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these festive treats.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter in place of regular butter for a dairy-free version; it still delivers that buttery richness without the dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor that resonates with the holiday spirit. A warm twist indeed!
- Bite-Sized Bars: Instead of squares, press the dough into a rectangular pan and cut into strips for an elegant touch reminiscent of a cookie bar.
For more sweet inspiration, consider these delicious options like Keto Cheesecake Bites and Chocolate Cheesecake Bites. Happy baking!
Storage Tips for Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites
Room Temperature: Store your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay deliciously fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For even longer storage, freeze the shortbread bites for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. No need to reheat; they’re delightfully soft and ready to savor straight from the container!
Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best butter for the Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose very soft unsalted butter. This allows for a creamy mixture that creates tender shortbread. If you find your butter isn’t soft enough, simply leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
What’s the best way to store Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites?
I often store my baked shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, the fridge is a good option, extending their shelf life to about 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites? How?
For sure! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To do this, first, place the shortbread bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature and they’re good to go!
What should I do if my shortbread dough is too crumbly?
Very often, a crumbly dough means that the butter may not have been soft enough or it wasn’t mixed enough with the sugar. If it feels too dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk to help bring the dough together. Just mix gently, and be careful not to overdo it, as the aim is to keep the cookies tender!
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of when making these shortbread bites?
Yes, definitely! This recipe includes almond extract, which may be an allergen for some. You can easily substitute it with vanilla extract for a nut-free version. Additionally, ensure that all your ingredients are gluten-free if you’re accommodating such dietary needs. Concerned about calories? You can swap granulated sugar for a sugar alternative for a lighter option!
Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites: Festive Magic in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 9-inch square baking pan with foil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar, beat until creamy, then stir in almond and vanilla extracts.
- Gradually mix in flour, salt, and optional food coloring until crumbly, then add most of the nonpareils.
- Press the dough into the lined pan and chill for 10 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Lift the dough from the pan, cut into 1-inch squares and chill for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 13-18 minutes until edges are lightly golden; cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, half & half, almond and vanilla extracts once cooled.
- Dip or drizzle glaze over shortbread bites and sprinkle with remaining nonpareils; let set for 3-4 hours.
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