A sprinkle of magic transforms a simple afternoon into a delightful baking adventure with these Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites. As you mix the buttery dough, the enticing aromas of almond and vanilla fill your kitchen, evoking the warmth of holiday memories. This easy cookie recipe is remarkably simple—no rolling or cutting required—making it perfect for bakers of any level. Whether you’re looking for a festive treat to share with friends or a cozy indulgence just for you, these melt-in-your-mouth bites deliver joy in every crumb. Plus, you can customize them with an optional glaze or even opt for a gluten-free twist! What’s your favorite way to make a holiday cookie feel special?
Why Are Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Special?
Irresistible flavor shines through: Infused with almond and vanilla, these cookies offer a delightful taste that evokes holiday cheer.
Effortless baking: With no rolling or cutting, this recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels to enjoy.
Visual appeal: Topped with multi-colored nonpareils or a smooth glaze, they’re perfect for festive gatherings.
Versatile options: Swap extracts or add toppings to create your unique twist, like the Cinnamon Sugar Donut variation that’s equally festive.
Crowd pleaser: Ideal for gifting during the holidays or serving at parties—everyone will be enchanted by these treats!
Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Ingredients
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For the Dough
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Very Soft Butter – Use it at room temperature to create a creamy texture that blends beautifully.
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Granulated Sugar – This sweet ingredient ensures your cookies have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
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Almond Extract – It brings a subtle nuttiness to the mix, but you can switch it out for vanilla extract if preferred.
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Vanilla Extract – A must-have for enriching the overall flavor profile of the cookie.
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Pink or Red Food Coloring (Optional) – Perfect for a festive touch; omit it if you prefer a classic look.
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All-Purpose Flour – The structure of your cookies; swap for a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
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Kosher Salt – This balances the sweetness while enhancing all the delicious flavors in your cookies.
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Multi-Colored Nonpareils – These tiny sprinkles add eye-catching charm; feel free to use colors you love or skip them altogether.
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For the Optional Glaze
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Powdered Sugar – Used to sweeten and thicken the glaze for a beautifully glossy finish.
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Half & Half – Adds creaminess and helps achieve the desired texture of the glaze.
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Vanilla Extract – A dash elevates the flavor of your glaze, tying it to the cookie base.
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Almond Extract – Use this for an added flavor layer that mirrors the cookie’s delightful base.
Prepare to sprinkle some magic this holiday season with your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven heats, line a 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, allowing the edges to hang over for easy removal. Lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray. This preparation will ensure your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites release easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the very soft butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the almond and vanilla extracts, mixing until well combined. If you’re using food coloring, incorporate it now to achieve your desired festive hue, blending until the color is uniform.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to your buttery mixture, stirring gently until a crumbly dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; the texture should remain slightly flaky. Once combined, fold in the multi-colored nonpareils, reserving a handful for decoration later. The dough will come together beautifully, ready for shaping!
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Transfer the crumbly dough into the prepared baking pan. Use your hands to press it evenly into the pan, smoothing the top for a nice finish. Once settled, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 10 minutes. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape during baking, resulting in perfectly formed Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites.
Step 5: Cut and Chill Again
After the dough has chilled, lift it from the pan using the foil edges and place it onto a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 1-inch squares. Arrange the squares on ungreased cookie sheets, leaving a little space between each one. Return the squares to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before baking.
Step 6: Bake
Place the cookie sheets in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 13-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for the bottoms to just begin to brown while the tops remain pale. Once baked, remove the cookie sheets from the oven and allow the Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 7: Optional Glazing
If you choose to add a glaze for an extra touch of sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar, half & half, and your choice of extracts until smooth. Dip each cooled cookie into the glaze, ensuring an even coating, and then place them on a cooling rack to set. This glaze can add a delightful shine to your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread.
Step 8: Store
Once the glaze has set, store your beautifully decorated shortbread bites in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for freshness or package them up as charming gifts. These delightful Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites are perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own!
Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity into these delightful bites!
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Citrus Twist: Replace almond extract with lemon extract for a vibrant, citrusy flavor that brightens the cookies.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. Pecans or cranberries work beautifully, enhancing the holiday spirit.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a slightly nuttier flavor and added nutrition, perfect for a wholesome twist.
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Flavor Boost: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced background that sings holiday cheer. It works wonders alongside the almond essence!
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Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top for an indulgent finish that takes these bites to another level. Chocolate and nutty flavors are a match made in heaven.
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Gluten-Free: Switch to a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version. These bites will still be deliciously buttery and satisfying.
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Chewy Version: To create a chewier cookie, try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough. This adds moisture and yields a delightfully soft texture.
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Joyful Sprinkles: Instead of nonpareils, use festive Christmas-themed sprinkles for a cheerful look. These will surely brighten up any holiday gathering!
Customize these Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites to your heart’s content, and if you’re looking for more scrumptious inspiration, try adding some of that festive flair from our delightful Easter Egg Sugar or Cinnamon Sugar Soft variations!
Expert Tips for Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your very soft butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a tender texture in your cookies.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry ingredients, mix just until crumbly. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Chill for Shape: Don’t skip chilling the dough after shaping and cutting. It helps maintain their form during baking, ensuring perfect squares of Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking; they should be pale on top with just a hint of browning on the bottoms for optimal texture.
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Customize Glaze Consistency: For the best glaze, adjust thickness by adding more powdered sugar or half & half as needed for your preferred look and taste.
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Store Properly: To maintain their freshness, keep the cookies in an airtight container or package them as delightful gifts for friends and family.
What to Serve with Easy Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites?
These enchanting cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings, bringing warmth and joy to any occasion.
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Warm Spiced Tea: The comforting flavors pair beautifully with the sweet almond and vanilla notes of the shortbread, enhancing their festive charm.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety drink harmonizes wonderfully, creating a delightful contrast to the buttery texture of each bite.
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Cranberry Orange Salad: The tartness and freshness of this seasonal salad offer a refreshing balance to the indulgent sweetness of the cookies.
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Cheese Board: featuring soft brie and sharp cheddar, provides a savory contrast that complements the shortbread’s sweetness perfectly, making for an exciting flavor adventure.
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Fruity Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, it becomes a charming breakfast or brunch addition, allowing you to enjoy these bites in a new way.
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Sparkling Cider: A bubbly beverage that adds a festive flair, elevating your cookie experience into a joyous celebration.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the shortbread for a decadent touch, creating a luxurious tie-in with the festive vibe.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Enhance the holiday spirit and variety of flavors at any gathering, giving your taste buds a delightful journey through seasonal treats.
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread
Fridge: Store your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can gently warm them in a microwave for about 10 seconds for that just-baked feel.
Gifting: If gifting, consider wrapping them in festive packaging after the glaze has set to maintain their beauty and taste!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the mixing instructions and refrigerating it in the prepared pan. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness. When ready to bake, simply lift the dough from the pan, cut it into squares, and chill again for at least 30 minutes before placing them in the oven. You can also bake and store the cooled shortbread bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just as delicious, these make-ahead cookies will save you time and elevate your holiday gatherings!
Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best butter for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use very soft, high-quality unsalted butter at room temperature. This ensures a creamy texture that blends easily with the sugar, creating a tender cookie. Look for butter that’s slightly warm to the touch but not melted, as this helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
How should I store my Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to enjoy them later, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container where they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or warm briefly in the microwave!
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough turns out crumbly, don’t worry! This can happen if the butter isn’t soft enough or if too much flour was added. To fix it, gently knead in a tiny bit of milk or water, just a teaspoon at a time, until the dough holds together. Remember to handle it as little as possible to maintain that tender texture.
Are there any allergy considerations with these cookies?
Great question! The Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites contain ingredients like butter, flour, and potentially almonds in the extract, which may not be suitable for those with milk, gluten, or nut allergies. For a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Always check product labels for allergy information before baking!
How can I customize the glaze for these cookies?
Certainly! For a beautifully glossy finish, whisk together powdered sugar, half & half, and extracts until smooth. If you want a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing, or even substitute almond extract for an enhanced flavor that ties back to the cookies.
Irresistible Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread for Holiday Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cream together the very soft butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the almond and vanilla extracts and mix well. If using food coloring, incorporate it now until blended.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to the mixture, stirring gently until a crumbly dough forms. Fold in the multi-colored nonpareils, reserving a handful for later decoration.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan, press evenly, and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 10 minutes.
- After chilling, lift the dough from the pan and cut into 1-inch squares. Arrange the squares on ungreased cookie sheets and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake for 13-18 minutes until bottoms just begin to brown. Remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the optional glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, half & half, and extracts until smooth. Dip cooled cookies in glaze and place on a cooling rack to set.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, or package as gifts after the glaze has set.
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