Get ready to cast a delicious spell this Halloween with these irresistible Chocolate Walnut Shortbread Bites that are guaranteed to bewitch every chocolate lover! Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp, chocolatey shortbread studded with crunchy walnuts - a treat so magical, it'll make your Halloween party guests scream with delight (and not just from fright)! These bite-sized morsels are not just a dessert; they're a wickedly good experience that combines rich chocolate, nutty crunch, and festive Halloween charm.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, soften the unsalted butter at room temperature until it's creamy and easily spreadable.
- Add powdered sugar to the softened butter and cream together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in vanilla extract and blend until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt to ensure no lumps remain.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead to bring it together.
- Roll the dough into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Remove from refrigerator and slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Place the shortbread bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm and set.
- Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for Halloween decoration.
Tips
- Keep your butter at the perfect room temperature - soft but not melted - for the most tender shortbread texture.
- Chill the dough before slicing to ensure clean, uniform rounds that bake evenly.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Don't overbake! Shortbread should be slightly firm at the edges but not dark or crisp.
- For a Halloween twist, use orange-tinted powdered sugar or black cocoa for decoration.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture for up to a week.
- For extra festivity, use Halloween-themed sprinkles or drizzle with orange and black melted chocolate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
