Name: Decadent Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites for Gifting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 88 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened at room temperature); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (substitute with vanilla or omit if desired); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; a few drops Food Coloring (optional); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1/4 cup Nonpareils (for decoration); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Half & Half (can substitute with milk)

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There’s something enchanting about the holiday season, especially when it comes to baked goods that evoke childhood memories. Enter the magical world of Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites—these delightful treats come together effortlessly, requiring no rolling or cutting, which means you can whip them up in no time! But what truly sets these bites apart is their ability to spread joy, both in flavor and in gifting. Not only are they an easy way to share the festive spirit, but they also boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. Plus, with whimsical free printable labels to adorn your gift boxes, you’ll be inspiring smiles and warmth with every delicious bite. Curious how to create a touch of magic in your kitchen? Let’s get started!

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Why Are Sugar Plum Fairy Bites Special?

Irresistible Delight: These simple yet decadent bites melt in your mouth, making them perfect for any holiday celebration.

No-Fuss Preparation: Forget the rolling and cutting—this recipe allows you to create delicious treats with minimal effort and clean-up.

Gift-Worthy: With charming labels included, you can easily package these delights for friends and family, spreading seasonal cheer.

Customizable: Change up the flavors with different extracts or brighten them up with colorful food coloring for a festive flair.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether at a holiday gathering or a cozy family night, these bites will have everyone reaching for more! If you’re looking for another sweet treat to try, check out our delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tarts that are sure to impress.

Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Ingredients

• Discover the magic of baking with these simple ingredients!

For the Bites

Butter – ensures a rich, tender texture; let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – adds sweetness and stability to your bites; don’t skip this for the perfect treat!
Almond Extract – infuses a delightful flavor; feel free to substitute with vanilla or omit if desired.
Vanilla Extract – works harmoniously with the almond flavor to create a deeper taste experience.
Food Coloring (optional) – adds a whimsical pink hue; omit if you prefer a more classic look.
All-Purpose Flour – the backbone of our bites, providing structure and a delightful crumb.
Kosher Salt – enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness beautifully.
Nonpareils – sprinkle magic on top for visual appeal and a fun crunch; choose any color to brighten your bites.

For the Optional Glaze

Powdered Sugar – sweetens and thickens the glaze beautifully; it’s essential for that glossy finish.
Half & Half – creates a smooth glaze consistency; you can swap with milk if you want!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This ensures your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites keep their shape and are easy to lift out once baked.

Step 2: Creaming the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the almond and vanilla extracts to infuse a delightful flavor, combining until everything is well-blended and creamy.

Step 3: Add Color (Optional)
If you’re feeling festive, now’s the time to add a few drops of food coloring to your creamed mixture. Stir it in until the color is evenly distributed. This step is optional, but it enhances the visual appeal of your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites, making them even more whimsical!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to the buttery mixture, mixing on low speed until combined into a crumbly dough. This should take about 1-2 minutes; be careful not to overmix. Once combined, gently fold in the nonpareils, reserving a handful for later decoration.

Step 5: Pack the Dough
Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula or your hands to pack it evenly into all corners. Aim for an even thickness throughout to ensure uniform baking. The dough should fill the pan tightly, creating a solid base for your delightful Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites.

Step 6: Chill for Firmness
Place the packed dough in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This step helps the butter firm up, making it easier to cut into squares later. While it chills, you can prep your workspace and any additional decorations, like the final sprinkling of nonpareils.

Step 7: Cut and Chill Again
After 10 minutes, remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and cut it into 1-inch squares using a sharp knife. Place the pan back in the fridge for another 30 minutes to ensure the bites keep their shape while baking, enhancing the texture of your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Once chilled, take the pan out of the refrigerator and bake the bites in your preheated oven for 13-18 minutes. They are ready when the edges are lightly golden but the center remains soft. Be sure to watch closely to prevent overbaking, as this will affect the delightful texture.

Step 9: Cool and Prepare for Glazing
After baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully lift the foil out of the pan and transfer the bites to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing or serving.

Step 10: Optional Glazing
If you choose to glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and half & half in a small bowl until you reach a smooth consistency. Drizzle or coat each cooled square with the glaze, then sprinkle on the reserved nonpareils for a festive touch. Allow the icing to set for 3-4 hours before enjoying your delightful creations!

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Expert Tips for Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is soft but not melted. This ensures it creams well with the sugar, creating that luscious texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining flour and salt, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough bites rather than tender Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread.
Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling steps! This helps the bites maintain their shape and texture during baking, preventing them from spreading too much.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your bites as they bake. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just golden to retain that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Glaze Consistency: For a perfect glaze, adjust the thickness by adding powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or half & half for a thinner, drizzlier version.

What to Serve with Magical Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites

Looking to create a delightful spread for your festive gathering?

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety drink that beautifully complements the buttery shortbread, enhancing the cozy experience of the season.
Cranberry Orange Relish: Bright and tangy, this relish adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, making each bite even more delightful.
Spiced Chai Latte: Warm and aromatic, this spiced drink pairs perfectly, evoking memories of cozy gatherings by the fireplace.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of ice cream create a wonderful balance with the melt-in-your-mouth shortbread.
Cheese Platter: Include a selection of mild cheeses like brie and gouda to create a savory counterpoint that will wow your guests.
Festive Fruit Salad: Bright fruits, such as pomegranate, orange, and apple, deliver a pop of color and flavor that lightens up the dessert table.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced wine adds a comforting warmth that elevates the festive atmosphere and pairs well with sweet treats.
Chocolate Covered Almonds: These provide a crunchy, indulgent snack that balances the soft texture of the shortbread bites delightfully.
Gingerbread Cookies: Keep the holiday spirit alive by serving these spiced cookies that echo the flavors of the season.
Peppermint Bark: For a crunchy and festive touch, this treat offers a minty surprise that complements the sweet flavors beautifully.

Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites uniquely yours!

Nutty Flavor: Swap almond extract with hazelnut or maple extract for a delightful and rich flavor twist. Each bite will bring a new surprise!
Fruit-Infused: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully. The aroma while baking will be simply enchanting!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top instead of glaze for a decadent finish. It adds a delightful texture that contrasts well with the soft shortbread.
Spiced Sugar: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a cozy, warm flavor profile that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. It fills your kitchen with an inviting scent!
Colorful Nonpareils: Change up the nonpareils by using themed colors for different occasions, like red and green for Christmas or pastels for Easter. A simple swap can make the treat festive too!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy. They’ll still be irresistibly delicious!
Omit the Glaze: Choose to skip the glaze entirely for a simpler treat, or sprinkle with more nonpareils before baking for a playful touch. Sometimes less is more!

If you’re looking for other delightful recipes as well, you might want to try our charming Brown Sugar Pop Tarts for a different sweet experience perfect for gifting!

Make Ahead Options

These Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and packing them into the lined baking pan. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out of the fridge, chill it for 30 minutes after cutting into squares, and then bake as directed. This preparation method not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your bites are just as delicious when baked! Keep them stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

How to Store and Freeze Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread

Room Temperature: Store your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their delicious texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours before enjoying, or briefly warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

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Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for the Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use very soft butter at room temperature. It should feel almost like a whipped texture to mix easily and create that melt-in-your-mouth quality. While sugar doesn’t ripen, ensure your extracts are fresh, as stale ones can diminish the flavors!

How should I store my Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites to keep them fresh?
You can store your delightful bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like them to last longer—up to 2 weeks—you can keep them in the refrigerator. Just remember to ensure they’re sealed tightly to avoid drying out!

Can I freeze Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites, and if so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your bites, make sure they are completely cooled first. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash-freeze for about 1 hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours!

What should I do if my dough seems too crumbly?
If your dough feels overly crumbly, don’t worry! Simply add a teaspoon of milk or water at a time while mixing until it holds together better. Be cautious not to overdo it, as too much liquid can change the texture of your Sugar Plum Fairy Shortbread Bites; they should remain soft and slightly crumbly.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind while making these bites?
Very good question! For those with nut allergies, you can substitute almond extract with vanilla or leave it out completely. Additionally, always check the labels of your other ingredients like nonpareils for potential allergens. If you’re baking for pets, keep in mind that butter and sugar aren’t suitable for them either!