Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the apple cider and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut out the cookies using a cookie cutter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes approximately 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the amount of salt added to the dough.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a slightly different flavor.
- Apple juice can be used instead of apple cider, but the flavor will be less intense.
Variations:
- Add 1 tsp of ground cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor.
- Drizzle melted caramel over the cooled cookies for a decadent treat.
- Sprinkle coarse sugar on top of the cookies before baking for a crunchy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugar to ensure a smooth dough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
- Use a sharp-edged cookie cutter to ensure clean edges on the cookies.
Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
The cookies can be reheated in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5 minutes to refresh them.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust them with powdered sugar for a festive look.
Garnishes:
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies.
- Top the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Pairings:
- Serve the cookies with a hot cup of apple cider for a cozy treat.
- Pair the cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the cookies alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair the cookies with a cheese plate for a savory complement.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of apple cider at a time until it comes together.
- If the cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough for an additional 15 minutes before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment thoroughly before starting the recipe.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Shortbread cookies originated in Scotland in the 16th century and were traditionally made with butter, sugar, and flour. The addition of apple cider in this recipe adds a seasonal twist to this classic treat.
Flavor profiles:
The cookies have a buttery, crumbly texture with a subtle apple flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the cookies as a dessert or snack during the fall and winter months.
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Taste: Sweet, Buttery, Cinnamon, Nutty, Cinnamon-Spiced