Savory Parmesan Shortbread

Makes 2 logs - or about 24 cookies

Looking for an alternative to sweet things this season? These savory cheese shortbread are guaranteed to be a hit! The dough is easily mixed, and quickly formed into two log forms. Once chilled, it’s a slice-and-bake routine. Pair these handcrafted savory shortbread with a bottle of bubbly for a charming gift offering this season.

Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) chilled salted butter
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, reserve 2 tablespoons
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary, reserve 1 teaspoon
1 teaspoon water
1/2 teaspoon flake salt

Directions: 
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Place the butter in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment and blend on medium-low until the butter becomes creamy. 

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, Parmesan, salt, cayenne, and rosemary. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Add 1 teaspoon of water to bring the mixture together.

5. Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a log. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill until firm, roughly 1 hour.

6. Slice the log into 1/4” cookies. Sprinkle the cookies with the remaining Parmesan and rosemary and bake for 12 minutes or until the edges begin to become lightly golden brown.

7. Once baked, transfer the shortbread to a cooling rack and sprinkle with flake salt.