Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars

Name: Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 stars
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; Sliced almonds; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

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

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:18:28.050Z

These Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are a family favorite, perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet snack any time of the year. Their rich, nutty flavor and crumbly texture make them irresistible!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich almond flavor with a buttery finish
Melt-in-your-mouth texture
Perfect for gifting or holiday celebrations

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars are not just cookies; they are a celebration on a plate. Their elegant star shape makes them ideal for festive gatherings, holiday parties, or simply a cozy afternoon treat. Whether you're hosting a family get-together or looking for the perfect gift, these delightful cookies will impress your guests and loved ones alike.

Their rich almond flavor combined with the buttery texture creates a unique taste experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering sweetness that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With a beautiful presentation, they can easily take center stage on any dessert table.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars, ensure your butter is properly softened. This step is crucial for creating that light and fluffy texture that makes these cookies so delightful. If you're in a hurry, you can cut the butter into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften more quickly.

Chilling the dough is another essential step that should not be overlooked. Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the butter to firm up, which helps the cookies retain their shape while baking. If you're short on time, you can chill the dough for a shorter period, but a longer chill will yield better results.

Creative Variations

While the classic almond flavor shines in this recipe, consider adding a twist to your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars. You can incorporate a splash of almond extract for an intensified almond flavor or a dash of orange zest for a refreshing citrus note. These small additions can elevate the taste and make your cookies stand out.

For a festive touch, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or dipping half of each cookie in chocolate before dusting with powdered sugar. Not only does this add a delightful contrast in flavors, but it also enhances the visual appeal, making them perfect for special occasions.

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

For Decoration

Sliced almonds
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat and Roll Out

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.

Cut Out Stars

Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of each cookie.

Bake

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on a wire rack.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and serve.

Enjoy your delicious Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, though they are likely to be devoured much sooner! If you want to prepare them in advance, consider freezing the unbaked dough. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to bake, just remove the dough from the freezer, let it thaw in the refrigerator, and then follow the rolling and cutting instructions. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime you crave a sweet treat.

Gifting Your Cookies

These Buttery Almond Shortbread Stars make excellent gifts, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging them in decorative tins or boxes, adorned with ribbons and tags to add a personal touch. Not only will your friends and family appreciate the gesture, but they'll also love the delicious homemade cookies inside.

You can also include a note with your recipe, encouraging them to bake these delightful cookies themselves. This way, you can share the joy of baking and create lasting memories together, making your gift even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe.

→ How should I store the cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before using.

→ What can I substitute for almond flour?

You can substitute with additional all-purpose flour, but the flavor will be different.