Shortbread Cookies with Jelly Tots

Shortbread cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style, and when paired with colorful Jelly Tots, they become even more fun and exciting! These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing thanks to the vibrant, chewy Jelly Tots that top each one. The crisp, delicate texture of the shortbread combines beautifully with the chewy, fruity burst of the Jelly Tots, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for kids and adults alike, making it an excellent choice for holiday baking, parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat with a cup of tea. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this simple yet tasty recipe will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation. These cookies are versatile, too—you can swap out Jelly Tots for other candies or even use fruit preserves to create your own unique variation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Buttery and Crispy

Shortbread is known for its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

2. Fun and Colorful

Topping the cookies with Jelly Tots adds a burst of color and a chewy, fruity surprise that everyone will love.

3. Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special baking techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.

4. Customizable

You can easily switch out Jelly Tots for other candy or fruit toppings to create a variation that suits your taste.

5. Great for Sharing

These cookies are perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, as they’re both delicious and eye-catching.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Powdered sugar
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Vanilla extract
• Jelly Tots (or any other colorful candy of your choice)

Variations

• Other Candies: Instead of Jelly Tots, you can use M&Ms, sprinkles, or chopped-up gummy bears for a different candy topping.
• Chocolate Dipped: For a more indulgent treat, dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate before topping with Jelly Tots.
• Jam Swirl: Instead of Jelly Tots, add a dollop of fruit jam to the center of each cookie before baking for a fruit-filled twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, powdered sugar, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Vanilla

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined. The dough will be soft but should come together into a ball.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or a round glass to cut the dough into circles or any other shape you prefer.

Step 6: Add Jelly Tots

Place the cookie shapes onto the prepared baking sheet and press a Jelly Tot into the center of each cookie.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as shortbread should be light in color.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming and smooth dough.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out.
• Don’t Overbake: Since shortbread cookies are meant to be light and delicate, avoid overbaking. The cookies should still be pale with just golden edges.
• Press the Jelly Tots Gently: Press the Jelly Tots into the dough gently so they stay in place while baking but don’t make them sink into the dough too much.

How to Serve

These Shortbread Cookies with Jelly Tots are perfect for any occasion. Serve them at a tea party, bake sale, or holiday gathering to add a sweet, colorful touch to your dessert table. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat, or enjoy them as a light snack with milk. You can also package them up in a cute gift box or jar as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store these shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a particularly humid area, consider refrigerating them to maintain their crispness.

Freezing

These cookies freeze well, so you can prepare them in advance. Simply freeze the baked cookies on a baking sheet for 30 minutes to prevent them from sticking together, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your shortbread cookies slightly warm, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can affect their texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe if you use salted butter.

2. Can I use another type of candy instead of Jelly Tots?

Definitely! You can swap out Jelly Tots for M&Ms, gummy bears, or any candy of your choice.

3. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before rolling and baking.

4. Can I use a cookie press for this recipe?

Yes, a cookie press will work well for making uniform shapes. Just be sure the dough is firm enough to hold its shape when pressed.

5. Can I make the cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.

6. Can I use a different flavor of extract?

Yes, you can experiment with different extracts such as almond, lemon, or orange for a unique twist on the classic shortbread.

7. Can I dip the cookies in chocolate?

Absolutely! For a richer treat, dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate and allow them to set before serving.

8. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. Shape it into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice and bake as needed.

9. Can I add nuts to the dough?

Yes, you can add finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

10. How can I prevent the Jelly Tots from melting too much during baking?

Be sure not to press the Jelly Tots too deeply into the dough and monitor the baking time closely to prevent excessive melting.

Conclusion

Shortbread Cookies with Jelly Tots are a delightful combination of buttery, crisp shortbread and chewy, fruity Jelly Tots that will brighten up any occasion. These simple, fun-to-make cookies are perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying as a personal treat. With their easy-to-follow recipe and endless customization options, they’re sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Print