Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars

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

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

Delight in the rich, buttery flavor of these Almond Shortbread Stars, perfect for festive occasions or a sweet treat.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:50:27.450Z

These Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of butter with the nutty essence of almonds. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they melt in your mouth and leave a lingering sweetness.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Nutty almond notes that elevate the classic shortbread
Perfectly festive shape for celebrations and gifting

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are not just a treat; they are a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a cookie swap, or looking for a delightful gift, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their festive star shape adds a charming touch to any dessert table, making them an instant favorite among guests of all ages.

These cookies are also versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Imagine serving them at birthday parties, baby showers, or simply as an afternoon snack with your favorite tea or coffee. The rich, buttery flavor combined with nutty almond notes ensure that they will be requested time and again.

A Simple Yet Elegant Treat

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that taste elegant and sophisticated. The use of almond flour not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture that will have everyone coming back for more.

Making these Almond Shortbread Stars is a wonderful activity to share with family or friends. Kids will love using cookie cutters to create fun shapes, while adults can appreciate the skill involved in crafting the perfect shortbread. This recipe encourages creativity, so feel free to experiment with different shapes and decorations!

Storage and Serving Tips

Once baked, these Almond Shortbread Stars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them great for meal prep or last-minute gatherings. If you want them to stay fresh longer, consider freezing the dough before baking. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies whenever the craving strikes!

When it comes to serving, these cookies can be enjoyed plain or adorned with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. Pair them with a hot beverage or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Shortbread Dough

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

Mix well for a smooth dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing well.

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.

Shape and Chill

Roll the dough into a 1/4-inch thick sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious shortbread stars!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the almond flour with other types of flour? While almond flour gives these cookies their unique flavor, you can experiment with other nut flours or even coconut flour. However, be aware that this may alter the texture and taste.

How can I make these cookies more festive? Consider adding colorful sprinkles or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top of the cooled cookies. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as orange or hazelnut, to create your own signature twist.

Nutritional Information

These buttery cookies are a delightful indulgence, but it’s always good to know what you’re enjoying. Each cookie contains essential fats from the butter and almond flour, providing a satisfying treat without excessive ingredients. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

If you're looking to make these cookies healthier, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of powdered sugar. Just keep in mind that this may affect the cookie’s texture and sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

→ How should I store the shortbread cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for almond flour?

You can use more all-purpose flour, but the flavor will be different.