Shortbread Flowers Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup fruit jam or lemon curd (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and vanilla extract and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a flower cookie cutter to cut out as many flowers as possible. Gather the scraps and reroll to cut out more flowers.
6. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using, make a small indent in the center of each flower with your fingertip and fill with a dollop of fruit jam or lemon curd.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Verdict:

These shortbread flowers are buttery, crisp, and delicately sweet. The addition of fruit jam or lemon curd adds a lovely burst of flavor. Perfect for a fancy tea party or as a homemade gift.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these shortbread flowers with a cup of hot tea or coffee. They make a great addition to a dessert platter or cookie jar.