11 Square Christmas Cookies Geometric Treats

11 Square Christmas Cookies Geometric Treats

Peppermint Brownie Squares

festive peppermint brownie treats

Peppermint Brownie Squares are a delicious and festive treat that combines the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with a rejuvenating hint of peppermint. These decadent squares are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth during the Christmas season. With a chocolatey base topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, they are sure to delight anyone who tries them.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder 1/3 cup
Baking powder 1/4 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup
Heavy cream 1/4 cup
Powdered sugar 2 cups
Peppermint extract 1/2 teaspoon
Candy canes (crushed) 1/4 cup

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and semisweet chocolate chips together. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. Mix Sugars and Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add the melted chocolate mixture to the sugars, stirring until well combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Bake Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, mix the powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Gently fold the whipped cream into the sugar mixture until smooth and well blended.
  7. Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the peppermint frosting evenly on top.
  8. Add Candy Canes: Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the frosting, pressing them in slightly to make sure they stick.
  9. Cut and Serve: Allow the brownies to set for about 30 minutes, then cut them into squares. Enjoy your festive Peppermint Brownie Squares!
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spiced holiday cookie bars

Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a warm and spiced treat that encapsulates the essence of Christmas. Soft and chewy, these bars are filled with comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, making them a delightful addition to any holiday cookie tray. They are easy to cut into squares, perfect for sharing, and can be topped with a sweet glaze for added festivity.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Molasses 1/2 cup
Large eggs 2
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Ground ginger 2 teaspoons
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for glaze) 1 cup
Milk (for glaze) 2-3 tablespoons
Vanilla extract (for glaze) 1/2 teaspoon

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookie bars.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
  3. Incorporate Molasses and Eggs: Add in the molasses and mix until well combined. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and ground cloves.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher bars.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into the corners. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
  7. Prepare the Glaze: While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if it’s too thick.
  8. Glaze the Bars: Once the gingerbread bars have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top using a spoon or drizzle bottle. Allow the glaze to set before cutting the bars into squares.

Enjoy your warm and spiced Gingerbread Cookie Bars this Christmas season!

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Chocolate Fudge Square Cookies

decadent fudge chocolate cookies

Chocolate Fudge Square Cookies are rich, decadent treats that are sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings during the holiday season. These cookies are soft and chewy, with a fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. With the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor, they can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of milk for a delightful snack.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Chocolate chips (semi-sweet) 1 cup

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix as this can make the cookies tough.
  6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
  8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these chocolate fudge square cookies warm or at room temperature!
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Holiday Spritz Squares

festive almond flavored cookie squares

Holiday Spritz Squares are a festive and colorful addition to any holiday cookie platter. These buttery, tender squares are infused with almond flavor and often topped with vibrant royal icing and festive sprinkles, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family or for enjoying during cozy holiday gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Large egg 1
Almond extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar 2 cups
Milk 2-4 tablespoons
Food coloring As desired
Sprinkles For decorating

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Extract: Add the large egg and almond extract to the butter mixture. Continue to beat until well combined and smooth.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until thoroughly combined.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture.
  6. Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners and smooth the top.
  7. Bake the Squares: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Squares: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper (if used) and let cool completely on a wire rack.
  9. Prepare Royal Icing: In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar and enough milk to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. If desired, divide the icing into smaller bowls to add different food coloring.
  10. Decorate: Once the squares are completely cooled, spread or pipe the royal icing on top of the squares. Finish with festive sprinkles for a holiday touch.
  11. Cut and Serve: Once the icing has set, cut the squares into desired sizes and serve. Enjoy your colorful Holiday Spritz Squares with family and friends!
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holiday eggnog cookie squares

Eggnog Sugar Cookie Squares are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These soft and chewy squares are infused with rich eggnog flavor, making them a perfect dessert for holiday parties or cozy gatherings with loved ones. Topped with a creamy glaze and a dusting of nutmeg, they are sure to bring warmth and joy to your celebrations.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Large egg 1
Eggnog 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar 1 cup
Milk 2-4 tablespoons
Extra nutmeg For garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the large egg, eggnog, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg until they are thoroughly mixed.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookie squares tender.
  6. Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake the Squares: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Squares: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the squares out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used) and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
  9. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, mix the powdered sugar with enough milk to achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency.
  10. Glaze the Squares: Once the cookie squares are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.
  11. Garnish: Sprinkle extra ground nutmeg on top of the glaze for a festive finishing touch.
  12. Cut and Serve: Once the glaze has set, cut the squares into pieces and enjoy your delicious Eggnog Sugar Cookie Squares!
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Cranberry Bliss Bar Cookies

cranberry white chocolate cookies

Cranberry Bliss Bar Cookies are a festive and delicious treat that combines the tanginess of dried cranberries with the sweetness of white chocolate. These soft, chewy cookies are not only perfect for holiday gatherings but also make a wonderful gift during the festive season. With a touch of cream cheese frosting on top and a sprinkle of cranberries, they are certain to be a hit!

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Large egg 1
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 1 3/4 cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Dried cranberries 1 cup
White chocolate chips 1 cup
Cream cheese 4 ounces (softened)
Powdered sugar 1 cup
Milk 1-2 tablespoons
Extra cranberries For garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookies.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Flavoring: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will guarantee your cookies remain tender.
  6. Fold in Cranberries and Chocolate: Gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips using a spatula, spreading them evenly throughout the cookie batter.
  7. Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool the Bars: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. After that, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used) and let them cool completely.
  10. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Mix using an electric mixer until smooth. Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
  11. Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
  12. Garnish: Sprinkle extra dried cranberries on top of the frosting for a festive touch.
  13. Slice and Serve: Slice the cranberry bliss bars into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious creation that captures the essence of the holiday season!
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Decorated Shortbread Squares

buttery festive shortbread squares

Decorated Shortbread Squares are a classic holiday treat that combines a buttery, crumbly texture with a sweet, decorative touch. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, as they can be easily cut into squares and adorned with colorful icing or sprinkles. Simple to make and delightful to eat, they are sure to bring festive cheer to any occasion!

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Powdered sugar 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Cornstarch 1/2 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Colored icing For decoration
Sprinkles For decoration

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, add the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream the ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Vanilla: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until well incorporated.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt until evenly mixed.
  5. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Spread the Dough: Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top, ensuring an even thickness.
  7. Bake the Squares: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
  8. Cool the Squares: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully lift the cookies out of the pan using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on the rack.
  9. Decorate the Squares: Once the cookies are completely cooled, use colored icing to decorate the top as desired, adding sprinkles for a festive touch.
  10. Cut and Serve: After decorating, cut the shortbread into squares or rectangles. Serve them on a platter or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
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Chocolate Chip Square Cookies

chocolate chip cookie squares

Chocolate Chip Square Cookies are a delicious and convenient take on traditional chocolate chip cookies. Baked in a square pan, these cookies combine the classic flavor of chocolate chips with a chewy, soft texture, making them perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or enjoying as an everyday treat. Easy to cut and serve, they are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Brown sugar 3/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
All-purpose flour 2 1/4 cups
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 1/2 cups
Chopped nuts (optional) 1/2 cup

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream together for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
  3. Add Vanilla and Eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Be sure to beat well after each addition until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
  5. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  6. Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and, if using, the chopped nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Spread the Dough: Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the top.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Cut and Serve: Once cooled, cut the cookies into squares. Serve them on a platter or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Square Cookies!
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autumn inspired pumpkin cookie bars

Pumpkin Spice Cookie Bars are a delightful autumn-inspired treat that combines the warm and cozy flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg into a soft and chewy bar. These cookie bars are perfect for the fall season, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy family get-togethers, or as a comforting sweet snack any time of the day.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Mix in Pumpkin and Eggs: Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat well until all the wet ingredients are fully combined.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt until thoroughly blended.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to guarantee a tender cookie bar.
  6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: If you’re using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed.
  7. Spread the Batter: Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan, smoothing the top.
  8. Bake the Cookie Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool: Once done, remove the baking pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then transfer the cookie bars to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Cut and Serve: Once cooled, cut the cookie bars into squares or rectangles. Enjoy them fresh or store them in an airtight container for later!
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almond flavored jam filled squares

Linzer Cookie Squares are a delightful twist on the classic Linzer cookie. This sweet treat features a buttery, almond-flavored crust topped with a layer of luscious fruit jam, typically raspberry or apricot, and is finished with a crumbly topping. These squares are perfect for holiday dessert trays, offering a beautiful presentation with a taste that’s both nutty and fruity, making them a favorite among cookie lovers.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Almond flour 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Egg yolks 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Fruit jam (raspberry or apricot) 1 cup
Sliced almonds (optional) 1/4 cup
Powdered sugar (for dusting) as needed

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, ground cinnamon, and baking powder until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well blended.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  6. Reserve Dough: Take about one-third of the dough and set it aside. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
  7. Spread the Jam: Evenly spread the fruit jam over the base layer of dough in the pan.
  8. Prepare the Crumb Topping: Crumble the reserved dough over the jam layer, creating a topping. If using, sprinkle the sliced almonds on top of the crumbled dough.
  9. Bake the Squares: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and set.
  10. Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar, then cut into squares for serving.

Enjoy your delicious Linzer Cookie Squares!

Festive Ribbon Squares

festive fruit shortbread squares

Festive Ribbon Squares are a colorful and cheerful holiday treat that combines layers of buttery shortbread, vibrant fruit preserves, and a light, sweet icing. Perfect for adding a festive touch to any holiday gathering, these squares are visually appealing and offer a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will enjoy. The combination of rich shortbread and tart fruit jam creates a treat that’s both satisfying and festive.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Powdered sugar 1 cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Fruit preserves (your choice) 1 cup
Food coloring (optional) as needed
Milk 2-3 tablespoons

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easier removal.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  4. Divide the Dough: Split the dough into three equal parts. You can add food coloring to each part if you’d like to create a colorful, festive look. Each portion can be colored differently based on your preference.
  5. Layer the Dough: Take one portion of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the first layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. Add Preserves: Spread an even layer of your chosen fruit preserves over the shortbread base. Be sure to cover it completely.
  7. Add Second Layer: Take the second colored portion of dough and crumble it over the jam layer. Use your fingers to create an even, crumbly top layer.
  8. Layer Again: Press the last portion of dough evenly over the crumbled topping. You can gently pat it down to guarantee it sticks.
  9. Bake the Squares: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  10. Cool and Frost: Lift the squares out using the parchment paper overhang and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze. Drizzle it over the top of the cooled squares.
  11. Slice and Serve: Once the glaze has set, slice the squares into small pieces. Arrange them on a festive platter and enjoy your beautifully colorful Festive Ribbon Squares!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.