Shortbread
Home-made biscuits make an ideal gift if you are keeping to a budget and want to convey that personal touch. Shortbread is easy to bake and can be individually decorated to show extra thought for each recipient. You can increase the festive appearance by using Christmas-themed biscuit cutters, such as Christmas trees or snowmen. Present the shortbread in a decorated gift box for an attractive, personalised gift.
Ingredients
Per biscuit: 176 kcal, 2g protein, 10g fat, 20g carbohydrate
250g butter
110g caster sugar
360g plain flour
Method
Heat the oven to 190°C/Gas Mark 5.
Beat the butter and the sugar together until the mixture becomes creamy and pale in colour. Stir in the flour to make a smooth paste.
Turn the mixture onto a work surface and gently roll out until the paste is 1cm thick. Cut into rounds or fingers and sprinkle with a little extra caster sugar. Place on a baking sheet and chill for 20 minutes.
Bake the shortbread in the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden, then allow to cool on a wire rack.
Use coloured writing icing to pipe one letter each of MERRY CHRISTMAS on each biscuit or choose a personalised message for different recipients.
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