Holiday Bakery Tray Cookies 🍪
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 3-4 dozen cookies
Calories: 930 kcal per serving
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Description:
Indulge in the nostalgic delight of gourmet bakery tray cookies, reminiscent of those charmingly wrapped in colored cellophane and gracing holiday displays. With a rich buttery flavor and a hint of sweetness, these treats are perfect for Christmas or any festive occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup sweet butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 2 – 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 squares semisweet chocolate
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in sugar thoroughly until well combined.
- Beat in egg yolk and extracts (vanilla and almond) until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Stir in flour by hand, adding 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Prepare your cookie press according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Common shapes include “Fingers”, “S-swirls”, “Stars”, and “Shells”.
- Press cookies onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Chocolate Coating:
- Melt semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl placed over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each cookie into the melted chocolate using a fork, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place the dipped cookies on a wire rack or waxed paper, allowing the chocolate to set.
- For added variety, while the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the edges with coconut or colorful sprinkles.
- For a sandwich cookie option, spread raspberry or apricot jam between two finger-shaped cookies.
Tips:
- Chill the dough: For easier handling, refrigerate the dough for several hours before rolling out and cutting into shapes.
- Variations: Experiment with different extract flavors, such as orange or lemon, for a refreshing twist on these classic cookies.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. In warm weather, consider refrigerating them to maintain the chocolate coating’s firmness.
Indulge in the joy of homemade holiday bakery tray cookies, whether for festive gatherings or as thoughtful gifts wrapped in colorful cellophane. Enjoy the delightful blend of buttery goodness and decadent chocolate, creating memories with every bite! 🎄🍫
