Italian Shortbread with Almonds and Jam

This goes together so easily! Nancy Frantz

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • Powdered sugar (optional)
  1. Preheat oven to 350o and set the rack in the middle of the oven. Have a 9-inch pan ready. (I use a 9” tart pan with a removeable bottom. You can use a 9” pie plate.)
  2. Beat the butter and sugar on medium speed in a stand mixer until very light (3-to 4-minutes).  Add the almond extract, beat for a minute more.
  3. Add the flour and the salt to the butter mixture and beat at low speed to combine.  Dough will be stiff.
  4. Press the dough into the 9” pan evenly.  Spread the jam evenly over the dough to within an inch of the edge. Sprinkle with almonds over the top.
  5. Bake the shortbread for 40-50 minutes or until golden brown.  Remove from oven and let cook completely on a rack. 
  6. To serve, sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired and either break into serving pieces or cut with a sharp knife.

Scroll to Top