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Spiderweb Shortbread

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Spiderweb Shortbread is a buttery Halloween treat featuring classic melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies topped with a spooky spiderweb icing design. Perfect for parties or festive baking, these cookies are simple yet striking.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Royal icing or melted chocolate (for decorating)
  • Black or dark brown food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
  4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
  5. Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thick and cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
  6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are just turning golden.
  7. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
  8. Prepare royal icing or melt chocolate for decoration. Tint some icing with black or dark food coloring if desired.
  9. Pipe a spiral from the center of each cookie outward using dark icing, then drag a toothpick from the center to the edge at intervals to create a spiderweb pattern.
  10. Allow icing to fully set before serving or storing (6–8 hours recommended).

Notes

Use gel food coloring for vibrant icing without altering consistency.Let icing dry completely before stacking or storing cookies.Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.Undecorated cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.Add citrus zest or spices to the dough for flavor variations.

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