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Bourbon Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies

Bourbon Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies that Melt in Your Mouth

These Bourbon Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining the rich flavors of bourbon and vanilla bean.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 sticks unsalted butter room temperature; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 cup organic cane sugar adds sweetness while enhancing the cookie's texture
  • 1/2 cup confectioners sugar contributes to that tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt helps balance the flavors; reduce or omit for dietary needs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract adds deep vanilla flavor
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla bean offers a strong, natural aroma of vanilla
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons bourbon introduces warm depth; omit for an alcohol-free version
  • 3 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour forms the main structure for a crisp texture
  • 1 egg white optional; add for a nice finish
  • 3-4 tablespoons raw sugar or demerara sugar optional; sprinkle on logs for added crunch

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer
  • baking sheet
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a stand mixer, combine the room temperature unsalted butter with organic cane sugar, confectioners sugar, and sea salt. Beat until creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, and bourbon, mixing well. Gradually add the unbleached all-purpose flour until a dough forms.
  3. Divide the dough into two portions. Shape into logs about 2 inches thick or discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush tops of logs with egg white and sprinkle raw sugar for added crunch. Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick cookies.
  5. Bake from 12-15 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden. Let cool completely before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 15mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These Bourbon Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies can be wrapped beautifully for gifting and are perfect for any gathering.

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