As the first snowflakes of the season gently kiss the windowpanes, I find myself in the heart of my kitchen, a sanctuary of warmth and love, illuminated by the soft glow of twinkling Christmas lights. The aroma of freshly baked cookies mingles with the scent of pine and cinnamon, creating an ambiance of pure holiday bliss. Today, I’m sharing a cherished family secret, a recipe that has graced our Christmas tables for generations: Maple Pecan Shortbread Cookies. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a symbol of the love and togetherness that defines the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- Extra pecan halves for decoration
- Optional: 1/4 cup granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions:
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, setting the stage for our festive creations.
- Creaming Butter and Maple Syrup: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and maple syrup until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the soul of the cookie begins – each stir infusing love and holiday spirit.
- Adding Dry Ingredients: Gradually blend in the flour and salt, stirring until just combined. The mixture should start resembling a soft, pliable dough, a canvas for our festive art.
- Incorporating Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. Each pecan piece adds a note of warmth and nuttiness, reminiscent of cozy holiday gatherings.
- Shaping the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If you wish, roll each ball in granulated sugar for an extra sparkle, like a dusting of Christmas magic.
- Pressing Pecan Halves: Place the balls on your prepared baking sheet, and gently press a pecan half into the top of each ball, as if crowning each cookie with a piece of holiday cheer.
- Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. As they bake, the kitchen fills with a sweet, nutty aroma, a prelude to the joy they will bring.
- Cooling: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, each a small token of holiday joy. As you bite into these Maple Pecan Shortbread Cookies, let them transport you to a world of Christmas past, present, and future – a world where every moment is savored, and every memory cherished.
In the glow of the Christmas lights, with a plate of these cookies in hand, we’re reminded of the simple joys that make the holiday season so special. Share these treats with your loved ones, and let the sweet taste of tradition and togetherness fill your hearts with Christmas cheer. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with all the warmth and sweetness these cookies embody.