Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars

Name: Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 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 cup almond flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract; Powdered sugar for dusting; Sliced almonds for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

Indulge in the delightful taste of Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:54:27.370Z

These Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are a family favorite, cherished for their rich flavor and delicate texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a simple tea time treat, they bring a touch of elegance to any table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich almond flavor that adds a unique twist
Melts in your mouth with every bite
Simple to make and perfect for sharing

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are not just delicious; they are the perfect addition to any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday party, a family reunion, or an afternoon tea with friends, these cookies will surely impress. Their charming star shape adds a festive touch that makes them a delightful treat for both kids and adults alike.

These cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. You can easily customize them for different seasons or celebrations by adding colored sprinkles or using different cookie cutter shapes. Their rich almond flavor and buttery texture make them a go-to recipe for those who appreciate a classic shortbread with a twist.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. This will help create a light and fluffy mixture when creaming with the powdered sugar. A good tip is to take the butter out of the fridge about an hour before you start baking to allow it to soften properly.

When rolling out the dough, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and on the rolling pin to prevent sticking. If the dough becomes too warm, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to make it easier to handle. This step is especially important for achieving clean, sharp edges when cutting out your star shapes.

Storing Your Cookies

Once your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are baked and cooled, storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for up to a week. To maintain their delightful texture, avoid storing them in the fridge, as this can cause them to become too soft.

If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing the cookies. Layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, and they can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, and they'll be ready to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread

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

For Decoration

Powdered sugar for dusting
Sliced almonds for garnish (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

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 large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Add extracts

Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until well combined.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt.

Form the dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shape the cookies

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out star shapes.

Bake

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and decorate

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with sliced almonds if desired.

Enjoy your buttery almond shortbread stars with a cup of tea or coffee!

Nutritional Information

These Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars offer a delightful balance of flavor and indulgence. Each cookie is a rich treat, making them perfect for special occasions or a sweet afternoon snack. With the combination of almond flour and all-purpose flour, they provide a unique texture that sets them apart from traditional cookies.

While they are a treat best enjoyed in moderation, the use of almond flour adds a bit of nutritional value. Almond flour is higher in protein and healthy fats compared to regular flour, making these cookies a slightly more nutritious option when you’re in the mood to indulge.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra special touch, serve your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee. The buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the warmth of your favorite beverage, creating a cozy experience perfect for afternoon breaks or gatherings with friends.

Consider presenting these cookies on a decorative platter, dusted with powdered sugar, and adorned with fresh berries or citrus slices for a pop of color. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery taste of the cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can use margarine, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture for these cookies.

→ How should I store the cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for almond flour?

You can use additional all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend if needed.