Rainbow Shortbread Bites Recipe

Introduction

Rainbow Shortbread Bites are colorful, buttery treats that bring a fun twist to classic shortbread. With cheerful sprinkles folded into a tender dough, these bites are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Ingredients

• 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

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Step 2: Line an 8″ x 8″ square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the dough later.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until creamy. Add the almond or vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Step 4: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the flour, salt, and sprinkles, mixing until just combined. Form the dough into a ball and knead gently a couple of times until it comes together.
5. Step 5: Press the dough evenly into the prepared square pan and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Use the parchment overhang to lift the chilled dough out of the pan. Cut the dough into 1/2-inch squares.
7. Step 7: Arrange the squares on the prepared baking sheets. Bake one sheet at a time for about 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. While one sheet bakes, keep the other chilled.
8. Step 8: Allow the shortbread bites to cool completely on the pans before storing.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality sprinkles for vibrant color and better texture contrast.
• Substitute almond extract with vanilla if you prefer a classic flavor.
• For a festive variation, add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
• Make sure to chill the dough well before cutting to keep the shapes clean.

Storage

Store the shortbread bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to two weeks. Reheat briefly in a warm oven to refresh the crispness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty flavor.

Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to cut and helping the shortbread maintain its shape while baking.

Rainbow Shortbread Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 96 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 36 shortbread bites 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightfully colorful and buttery, these Rainbow Shortbread Bites are a festive treat perfect for any occasion. They combine a classic shortbread base with a fun sprinkle twist, creating bite-sized cookies that are crisp, tender, and visually appealing. Easy to prepare and bake, these treats bring a playful pop of color to your dessert table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silpat mats to prevent sticking.
2. Line the Square Pan: Take an 8″ x 8″ square pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift out the dough later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Then incorporate your choice of almond or vanilla extract and mix well to combine the flavors.
4. Add Dry Ingredients and Sprinkles: Reduce your mixer speed to low to avoid flour flying, then gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and sprinkles. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and a dough forms. Once mixed, press the dough into a ball and knead gently a couple of times until smooth.
5. Chill the Dough: Press the dough evenly into the prepared square pan. Cover and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up for easier cutting and baking.
6. Cut the Dough: Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the chilled dough out of the pan. Cut the dough into 1/2-inch squares with a sharp knife or pizza cutter for even bite-sized pieces.
7. Bake the Shortbread: Arrange the squares on the prepared baking sheets, placing one sheet in the oven at a time. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. While one sheet bakes, keep the other one chilled in the refrigerator.
8. Cool and Store: Allow the shortbread bites to cool completely on the baking sheets to firm up. Once cool, transfer to an airtight container for storage to keep them fresh.

Notes

• Make sure the butter is soft but not melted for the best texture.
• If you prefer, substitute almond extract with vanilla extract or another flavor extract.
• Use colorful sprinkles to create a festive look, but avoid using ones that melt under heat for a cleaner appearance.
• Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent over-browning.
• Chilling the dough before cutting and baking helps maintain the shape of the shortbread bites.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: rainbow shortbread bites, sprinkles cookies, buttery shortbread, festive cookies, easy dessert, bite-sized cookies, homemade shortbread