Funfetti Shortbread Bites

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Imagine sinking your teeth into crisp, buttery, rainbow-speckled shortbread bites. These delightful treats bring the perfect combination of texture, color, and sweetness to your table. Perfect for celebrations, school lunches, or a quick snack, these 5-Ingredient Funfetti Shortbread Bites are both simple to make and universally loved. Their vibrant sprinkles and rich, buttery flavor make them a hit with kids and adults alike, and their impressive shelf life means you can prepare them ahead for any occasion.

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This recipe, yielding a whopping 336 mini bites, is not just about delicious cookies—it’s about creating joyful moments. Whether you’re baking with family or whipping up a batch solo, the process is both satisfying and rewarding.

Ingredients: The Magic Behind the Bites

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet irresistible dessert:

• 1 cup (226g) salted butter, cold and diced into 1 Tbsp piecesThe butter is the star of this recipe, lending the shortbread its rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture.
• 3/4 cup (155g) granulated sugarJust the right amount to sweeten these bites without overpowering the buttery base.
• 3/4 tsp almond extractAdds a subtle, nutty aroma and flavor that complements the buttery richness.
• 2 1/4 cups (318g) all-purpose flourThe structural backbone of these cookies, giving them their signature shortbread texture.
• 3 1/2 Tbsp (42g) nonpareils sprinkles, dividedThe sprinkles infuse these bites with bursts of color and a playful crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Dough to Delight

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish
   Butter a 13×9-inch baking dish and line it with two sheets of parchment paper, arranged crosswise for easy removal. Leave a 1-inch overhang on all sides to help lift the dough out later. Butter the parchment layers lightly to ensure they stick together.
2. Make the Dough
   In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the cold, diced butter and sugar. Unlike traditional cookie recipes, you don’t need a fluffy mixture—just blend until smooth. Add almond extract and mix briefly.
   Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour. Be patient during this step; the dough will appear dry and sandy at first but will eventually come together. Stir in 2 1/2 tablespoons of sprinkles to distribute the color evenly.
3. Press and Chill
   Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish using your hands. Smooth it out with the flat bottom of a measuring cup for a polished finish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of sprinkles over the top and gently press them into the dough. Chill the dish in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat and Slice
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lift the chilled dough from the pan using the parchment overhang. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 1/2-inch squares. Focus on straight, even rows for uniform bites.
5. Bake in Batches
   Place 1/3 of the cookies on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them 1/2-inch apart. Bake for 8–12 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Keep the remaining dough refrigerated while baking each batch to prevent spreading.
   Repeat with the remaining cookies, ensuring the baking sheet cools completely between batches.
6. Cool and Store
   Allow the cookies to cool entirely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for easy snacking or freeze them for longer storage.

The Experience: Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

These shortbread bites offer a multi-sensory delight. The buttery richness melts in your mouth, while the almond extract provides a sophisticated hint of nutty sweetness. The sprinkles not only add vibrant color but also a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender crumb of the cookie.

As you bake, your kitchen will fill with the comforting aroma of butter and sugar caramelizing—a smell synonymous with home and happiness.

Tips for Success

Substitutions
Use unsalted butter and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the flour if preferred.
Swap almond extract with vanilla extract for a more classic shortbread flavor.

Variations
Switch up the sprinkles for different occasions—red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or orange and black for Halloween.
Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an extra layer of indulgence.

Serving Suggestions
Pair these bites with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Include them in gift boxes or party favor bags for festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Funfetti Shortbread Bites are more than just cookies—they’re a mood-lifter. Their compact size makes them easy to share, pack, and store, while their vibrant appearance is guaranteed to bring smiles. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe means it’s perfect for all skill levels, from beginner bakers to seasoned pros.

Make these cookies your next baking project and experience the joy of creating a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!