Jeweled Shortbread Cookies
Jeweled Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crispy treats topped with fruit preserves and almonds, perfect for elegant gatherings or as a delightful sweet snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Beat margarine, sugar, and almond extract until fluffy.
- Stir in combined oats and flour.
- Divide dough into four equal pieces.
- Place two portions on opposite corners of a large ungreased cookie sheet.
- Press each into a circle about 1/8-inch thick.
- Press edges of dough with tines of a fork.
- Repeat with the other two pieces.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown.
- Remove from oven and spread 2 tablespoons of preserves on the center of each circle.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of slivered almonds over the preserves.
- Cool for 10 minutes on the cookie sheet.
- With a large knife, cut each circle into 8 wedges.
- Remove to a wire rack and cool completely.
- Store loosely covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute the fruit preserves with your favorite jam or jelly, such as raspberry or apricot. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the slivered almonds. Make sure to press the dough evenly for consistent baking, and check for doneness to avoid over-baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Jeweled Shortbread Cookies are perfect for an afternoon tea or as a delightful treat alongside your favorite coffee or hot chocolate. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie trays. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with a glass of Jack-O-Lantern Punch for a seasonal celebration.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes, which will help restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jeweled Shortbread Cookies contains roughly 170 calories, with 5g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. Simply shape the cookies and bake them when you're ready to serve. This is especially handy for holiday gatherings or when hosting guests.
What can I use instead of slivered almonds?
If you're looking for alternatives to slivered almonds, you can use chopped walnuts or pecans for a different texture. For a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely. The cookies will still be delicious without them.
Can I substitute the oats with something else?
Yes, you can use quick oats or even a gluten-free oat blend if you prefer. However, avoid using instant oats as they might affect the texture of the cookies. If you're looking for a different flavor, consider adding coconut flakes to the dough for an interesting twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).