Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars

Name: Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/4 cup sliced almonds for topping

Highlighted under: Gourmet Baking Bliss

Indulge in these delightful Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars, perfect for any festive occasion or as a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T21:34:27.624Z

These Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are a classic treat that bring joy and comfort with every bite. Made with simple ingredients, they are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich almond flavor that envelops the buttery goodness
Crispy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are not just cookies; they are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it's a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a cozy afternoon with friends, these charming star-shaped cookies are sure to impress. Their elegant appearance coupled with a rich flavor makes them an ideal addition to cookie platters or dessert tables.

Moreover, the simplicity of this recipe allows you to whip up a batch quickly. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly special. The buttery texture combined with the subtle almond notes offers a perfect balance that complements a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful companion for your afternoon breaks.

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies

To ensure your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars turn out perfectly, pay attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Using softened butter is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. If your butter is too cold, it won't cream properly with the sugar, resulting in a denser cookie. Letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes should do the trick.

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This consistency helps the cookies bake evenly, preventing some from over-baking while others remain undercooked. If the dough is too sticky, a light dusting of flour on your work surface and rolling pin can help manage it without compromising texture.

Storing and Gifting Your Cookies

Once baked, allow your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars to cool completely on a wire rack. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you're planning to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Layer the cookies between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months, preserving their flavor and texture.

These cookies also make for a wonderful gift! Present them in a decorative tin or box, and you have a thoughtful homemade treat that friends and family will cherish. Adding a personal note or a festive ribbon can elevate the presentation, making your gift not only delicious but memorable.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cookies:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup almond flour
1/4 cup sliced almonds for topping

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Vanilla and Mix Dry Ingredients

Stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies.

Add Almonds and Bake

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Top each cookie with a few sliced almonds. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars!

Once your cookies are cool, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of almond extract to the dough. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate on top for a delightful twist!

Why Almonds are a Great Addition

Almonds are not just for decoration; they add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the buttery richness of the shortbread. Rich in nutrients, almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, making your treat not only tasty but also a bit healthier than traditional cookies. Their unique flavor profile enhances the overall experience, making each bite a little more special.

In addition to being a flavorful topping, almond flour is a key ingredient in this recipe. It contributes to the cookie's tender crumb and enhances the almond taste. This combination of almond flour and sliced almonds ensures that every cookie is packed with that irresistible nutty goodness.

Customizing Your Shortbread Stars

While this recipe offers a classic almond flavor, feel free to experiment with other variations. You can add a hint of citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to brighten the flavor. Alternatively, incorporating a touch of cocoa powder can create a chocolate version that pairs wonderfully with the almond base. This versatility allows you to tailor the cookies to your taste preferences or seasonal themes.

Another fun idea is to use different cookie cutter shapes. While stars are perfect for festive occasions, hearts or flowers could be delightful for Valentine's Day or spring celebrations. The customization possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a batch that aligns perfectly with your event or gifting needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond flour with another flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead, but the flavor will differ.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of powdered sugar?

You can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until it's fine.