Best 2 Fruit And Nut Shortbread Recipes

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Indulge in the delectable delight of fruit and nut shortbread, a classic Scottish treat that combines the crumbly texture of shortbread with the vibrant flavors of dried fruits and the nutty crunch of roasted almonds. This timeless recipe features three variations, each offering a unique taste experience. The traditional fruit and nut shortbread embodies the classic combination of dried currants, sultanas, and almonds, while the citrus zest variation adds a refreshing burst of lemon and orange zest. For those who prefer a more decadent treat, the chocolate chip variation incorporates rich, melted chocolate chips. With its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the contrasting sweetness of the fruits and nuts, this shortbread is a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you're looking for a traditional Scottish treat or a delightful homemade gift, these fruit and nut shortbread recipes are sure to impress.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

FRUIT AND NUT SHORTBREAD



Fruit and Nut Shortbread image

A colorful addition to your Christmas baking.

Provided by Carol

Categories     Desserts     Cookies     Refrigerator Cookie Recipes

Yield 18

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 cup butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg yolk
2 cups all-purpose flour
⅔ cup candied cherries, halved
½ cup chopped walnuts

Steps:

  • Cream butter and sugar. Add yolk and flour. Cut in fruit and nuts. Shape dough into two rolls 2 inches in diameter and roll in waxed paper. Chill overnight.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  • While still cold and wax paper still on, take a sharp knife and cut thin slices (1/8 inch). Set on greased cookie sheets, remove wax paper and bake for 10 minutes. (Slightly brown edges).

Nutrition Facts : Calories 227.2 calories, Carbohydrate 27 g, Cholesterol 38.5 mg, Fat 12.7 g, Fiber 0.6 g, Protein 2.2 g, SaturatedFat 6.8 g, Sodium 80.7 mg, Sugar 15.1 g

FRUIT AND NUT HOLIDAY SHORTBREAD



Fruit and Nut Holiday Shortbread image

Provided by Melissa d'Arabian : Food Network

Time 1h

Yield 16 cookies

Number Of Ingredients 8

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened to room temperature
1/3 cup sugar
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
2 tablespoons orange marmalade

Steps:

  • Make the shortbread cookies: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Cream the butter with the sugar in a medium bowl using a handheld mixer. In a small bowl, mix the salt and flour, and then mix into the butter, 1/4 cup at a time, just until uniform. Do not overmix. Gather the dough into a ball; chill for 15 minutes if the dough is beginning to soften or feel greasy. Roll the dough out to 1/2-inch and cut into rectangles about 1/2-inch by 2 inches. Place on a cold, ungreased baking sheet. Bake until the edges are just beginning to turn golden, 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, make the fruit and nut topping: In a small bowl, mix the pecans, cranberries, and chocolate chips with the orange marmalade.
  • After 20 minutes, remove the cookies from the oven and spread the fruit and nut topping on the tops of the shortbread. Return to bake for 7 to 8 more minutes. Allow to cool before serving. Best eaten within a day or two of making.

Tips:

  • Use cold, unsalted butter: Cold butter is easier to work with and will help keep the shortbread from spreading too much in the oven. Unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
  • Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy: This will help to incorporate air into the mixture, making the shortbread lighter and more tender.
  • Add the flour and nuts gradually: This will help to prevent the dough from becoming too dry or tough.
  • Chill the dough before baking: This will help to firm up the dough and make it easier to handle. You can chill the dough for up to 3 days before baking.
  • Bake the shortbread in a preheated oven: This will help to ensure that the shortbread bakes evenly.
  • Cool the shortbread completely before cutting: This will help to prevent the shortbread from crumbling.

Conclusion:

This fruit and nut shortbread recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. The shortbread is made with simple ingredients and can be customized to your liking. With a few simple tips, you can make sure that your shortbread turns out perfectly every time. So next time you're looking for a sweet treat, give this fruit and nut shortbread recipe a try!

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