If you're a fan of baked goods that combine simplicity with a touch of nature's magic, Douglas Fir Shortbread might just become your new favorite treat. This recipe takes the humble shortbread to another level by infusing it with the fragrant, woodsy notes of Douglas fir. The result is a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with an earthy twist that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or gifting during the holiday season.
Using Douglas fir in baking is a beautiful way to connect with nature and explore unique flavors. Its citrusy, pine-like aroma works remarkably well in sweet treats, striking a delightful balance with the rich buttery base of traditional shortbread.
Here’s how to make this aromatic delight.
Ingredients
To make Douglas Fir Shortbread, you'll need the following:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for a tender texture)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup fresh Douglas fir needles, finely chopped (see sourcing tips below)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract (both work wonderfully)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional for garnish:
- Extra Douglas fir needles for a woodland-like touch
- Coarse sugar for a sparkly finish
Directions
Step 1: Prep Your Douglas Fir
Start by gathering fresh Douglas fir needles, ensuring they're free from dirt and debris. Rinse them thoroughly and pat dry. Strip the needles from the twigs and chop them finely. The needles will release their citrusy and resinous aroma as you chop, hinting at the deliciousness that awaits.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Cream the butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving that tender crumb we all love in shortbread.
- Stir in the vanilla (or almond) extract and mix well.
- Add the finely chopped Douglas fir needles and mix to evenly distribute their aromatic flavor.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to remain soft and pliable.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or parchment paper, flattening it into a disk. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step firms up the dough and makes it easier to roll out.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) while the dough chills. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Once the dough is chilled, roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a cookie cutter or simply slice the dough into classic shortbread rectangles. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Shortbread shouldn’t brown too much; its pale color is part of its charm.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Once cooled, sprinkle the cookies with coarse sugar for a festive look, or leave them plain to showcase their rustic simplicity. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee to truly savor their unique flavor.
Tips for Sourcing Douglas Fir
- Foraging: If you’re lucky enough to live near Douglas fir trees, you can forage the needles yourself. Look for fresh, vibrant green needles that are soft to the touch. Always avoid trees exposed to pesticides or pollutants.
- Local Markets: Some specialty farmers’ markets or herbal stores may carry Douglas fir needles during the holiday season.
- Alternatives: If Douglas fir is unavailable, you could substitute with other edible conifers like spruce or pine, but ensure they’re safe and pesticide-free. Always double-check the species, as not all conifers are edible.
Why You’ll Love Douglas Fir Shortbread
This shortbread is the perfect blend of buttery richness and herbal brightness. The Douglas fir adds a subtle, aromatic quality that’s reminiscent of wintery forests, making these cookies ideal for holiday celebrations or as a conversation-starting homemade gift.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that feels both rustic and sophisticated, all while bringing a bit of the outdoors to your baking. Whether you’re an experienced forager or just someone curious about unique flavors, give this recipe a try and see how delightful a little bit of nature can taste!
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