Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Leprechaun Bites are the perfect combination of buttery shortbread and festive decoration. Their bright green color makes them ideal for Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations, and their crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth texture is simply irresistible. Whether you’re gifting them to friends and family or serving them at a party, these cookies will be a hit with everyone. They’re also easy to customize with different sprinkles for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (plus more to butter the pan)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 to 6 drops green gel food coloring
- 4 teaspoons Saint Patrick’s Day color nonpareil sprinkles (green, yellow, and orange)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Butter an 8-inch pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and extract until creamy (1-2 minutes).
- Add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until crumbly.
- Add the food coloring and mix until a dough forms.
- Stir in the nonpareils until evenly distributed.
- Press the dough into the prepared pan, then transfer it to a cutting board.
- Cut the dough into ½-inch square pieces and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the bottoms begin to brown.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 to 18 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Swap the green food coloring for other colors like red or blue for different holiday themes.
- Use different sprinkles to match the occasion or personal taste preferences.
Storage/Reheating
Store Leprechaun Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also freeze well; place them in a freezer bag for up to two months. To thaw, leave at room temperature for a few hours.
FAQs
What kind of food coloring should I use for this recipe?
Gel food coloring is recommended because it produces vibrant colors without changing the dough’s texture. Liquid food coloring may cause the dough to become too runny.
Can I use a different kind of extract?
Yes, you can use almond or vanilla extract. Both provide a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the buttery shortbread.
Why is my dough crumbly?
The dough can be crumbly because of the shortbread nature. Ensure your butter is at room temperature, and be patient as it comes together during mixing.
Can I use different sprinkles?
Absolutely! You can use any sprinkles you like, but avoid using jimmies, as their color may bleed into the dough.
How do I make these cookies without a pan?
You can roll the dough into a log, chill it, and slice it into rounds if you don’t want to use a pan. Just ensure they are evenly sized.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, butter gives these cookies their signature shortbread flavor and texture, so it’s highly recommended.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, shortbread cookies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to two months.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can grease the pan directly, but parchment paper makes it easier to remove the dough after pressing it into the pan.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Yes, these cookies are perfect for gifting, especially around holidays like Saint Patrick’s Day. Consider packaging them in cute cellophane bags or small treat boxes.
Conclusion
Leprechaun Bites are a fun and festive way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with delicious shortbread cookies. Their vibrant green color and crunchy texture make them irresistible, and they are easy to make and customize. Whether you’re baking them for a party, giving them as gifts, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion.
Print
Leprechaun Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 18 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with Leprechaun Bites, festive green mini shortbread cookies. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats are topped with colorful sprinkles and easy to make, making them perfect for gifting or enjoying with loved ones. Vibrant and delicious, Leprechaun Bites are the ideal festive treat for your holiday celebrations!
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (plus more to butter the pan)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 to 6 drops green gel food coloring
- 4 teaspoons Saint Patrick’s Day color nonpareil sprinkles (green, yellow, and orange)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Butter an 8-inch pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and extract until creamy (1-2 minutes).
- Add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until crumbly.
- Add the food coloring and mix until a dough forms.
- Stir in the nonpareils until evenly distributed.
- Press the dough into the prepared pan, then transfer it to a cutting board.
- Cut the dough into ½-inch square pieces and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the bottoms begin to brown.
Notes
- For different occasions, swap the green food coloring for other colors like red or blue.
- Choose different sprinkles to match the holiday or your personal taste.
- Ensure you use gel food coloring for vibrant color without altering the dough’s consistency.
- For a pan-free method, roll the dough into a log, chill it, and slice it into rounds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Cookies, Dessert, Holiday Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
