Almond Maple Shortbread Cookies

These maple almond shortbread cookies would be a perfect "first" recipe for an older child to make all on their own—just think how proud they'd be! They are super simple to make and would be a delicious addition to your holiday cookie swap.

Ingreadient

• 6 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (I got mine from nuts.com)
• 3/4 cup whole-wheat pastry flour

Step by step

1. Preheat oven to 300° F. Beat butter, syrup, salt and extract together on medium speed until well combined. Gently beat in the flour and add a teaspoon or two of water (if necessary) to help the dough come together.
2. Roll out (or pat it out with your hands) on a lightly floured surface into one even layer 1/4″ thick. Cut into 1 1/2″ rounds (or another shape) and pierce with a fork in a decorative pattern. 
3. Bake until golden brown on the bottom (about 10 to 12 minutes). Transfer to cooling rack and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container or freeze for a rainy day.