Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars

Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars are a whimsical, melt-in-your-mouth holiday cookie that feels straight out of a fairytale. Buttery, tender shortbread cookies shaped into delicate stars and finished with jewel-toned sugar plum jam centers create a festive dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

These cookies combine the classic richness of traditional shortbread with a subtle fruity sweetness from sugar plum jam. The result is a perfectly balanced cookie—lightly sweet, buttery, and elegant—ideal for holiday cookie trays, Christmas gifting, or cozy winter baking days.

What makes these shortbread stars especially appealing is their simplicity. Shortbread dough requires only a handful of pantry staples, yet delivers a refined texture that practically melts on the tongue. The star shape adds charm, while the jam center brings color, flavor, and a hint of nostalgia.

If you’re looking for a standout holiday cookie that feels both classic and special, sugar plum shortbread stars are a must-bake.

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Why You’ll Love These Shortbread Stars

These cookies are tender without being crumbly, rich without being heavy, and festive without requiring complicated techniques. The dough is easy to handle, making it perfect for rolling and cutting into clean star shapes.

Sugar plum jam adds a subtle tartness that balances the buttery base, while a light dusting of powdered sugar gives the cookies a snow-kissed finish. They store well, travel beautifully, and look stunning on any holiday dessert table.

Best of all, they’re simple enough for beginner bakers yet elegant enough for gifting.

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Ingredients

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Sugar plum jam
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
3. Mix in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour and mix just until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
6. Cut into star shapes and place on prepared baking sheets.
7. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently indent the center of each star.
8. Fill each indentation with a small spoonful of sugar plum jam.
9. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are just set but not browned.
10. Cool completely, then dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies

Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the shortbread tender. Mix just until combined.

Chill the dough briefly if it becomes too soft while rolling—this helps maintain clean star shapes.

Use a light hand with the jam to prevent it from bubbling over during baking.

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Variations and Flavor Ideas

Swap sugar plum jam for raspberry, apricot, or cherry preserves for a different color and flavor profile.

Add a pinch of almond extract to the dough for a subtle nutty note.

For extra sparkle, sprinkle sanding sugar over the jam before baking.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Sugar plum shortbread stars can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

They also freeze well without the powdered sugar garnish. Dust with sugar after thawing for the best presentation.

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Why This Recipe Works

Shortbread relies on the perfect balance of butter, sugar, and flour. This recipe keeps the ratio classic, resulting in cookies that hold their shape while remaining soft and delicate.

The low baking temperature ensures the cookies bake evenly without browning, preserving their pale, elegant appearance.

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Final Thoughts

Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars are a timeless holiday cookie that blends simplicity with festive charm. With their buttery texture, jewel-toned centers, and starry shape, they’re guaranteed to become a cherished part of your holiday baking tradition.