Swedish Shortbread(Colored Cookies)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 8 min Cuisine: Swedish

Colorful Swedish shortbread cookies with rich butter flavor and a crisp texture, perfect for festive occasions or as delightful treats for gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. butter or margarine
  • 2 c. powdered sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 Tbsp. vanilla
  • 5 c. plain flour

Instructions

  1. Blend butter or margarine and powdered sugar until smooth.
  2. Add egg and vanilla, and mix well.
  3. Gradually add flour until the dough is firm but pliable.
  4. Divide the dough into three portions.
  5. Add food coloring to two of the portions and knead until evenly colored.
  6. Press out the dough with a cookie press or roll out and cut into shapes.
  7. Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until slightly browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist. If you don’t have food coloring, you can roll the dough in colored sprinkles before baking for added texture and fun. Make sure to chill the dough for about 30 minutes if it's too soft to handle easily.

Serving Suggestions

These colorful Swedish shortbread cookies are perfect for festive occasions and can be served with tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Pebble'S White Chocolate Mousse for a delightful dessert spread. Consider arranging them on a decorative platter for a charming presentation at parties or gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Swedish Shortbread(Colored Cookies) contains roughly 3600 calories, with 9g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 308g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein.

3600 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.7g 17% DV
Total Fat 307.8g 100% DV
Carbs 129.9g 47% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 27.4g 55% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 348.3mg 15% DV
Potassium 829.9mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 75.6mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Calcium 287.5mg 22% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for plain flour, but the texture will be denser. Start with a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain some tenderness. Adjust as needed depending on your preference.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a firmer consistency. Alternatively, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Swedish shortbread cookies, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that it contains xanthan gum for proper binding. This will allow you to enjoy the cookies without gluten.

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).

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