Savory Pecan, Parmesan and Thyme Shortbread
- Course: Dessert
- Features: Holiday (Christmas)
Summary:
These go well with a glass of dry sparkling wine just before dinner.
MAKE AHEAD: The dough must be refrigerated for at least 1 hour and up to 3 days. It can be rolled into logs and frozen for up to 2 months. The shortbread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
Makes about 36 cookies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pecan pieces
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon minced thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
Spread the pecan pieces on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 8 minutes, until they are fragrant. Transfer to a cutting board to cool, then coarsely chop.
Place the butter in the bowl of a stand or hand-held electric mixer; beat on medium speed for several minutes, until fluffy and light. Add the Parmesan cheese and beat until well blended.
Remove the bowl from the mixer, then add the flour, toasted pecans, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula, then use your hands to help the dough come together. Divide the dough in half, then shape each half into a log 1 1/2 to 2 inches wide. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 3 days.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut one of the logs crosswise into 1/4-inch slices, arranging the rounds of dough 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, until golden. Transfer the shortbread to wire racks to cool completely before storing. Repeat to use all of the dough.
Recipe Source:
Adapted from "Outstanding in the Field," by Jim Deneven with Marah Stets (Clarkson Potter, 2008).
E-mail the Food Section with recipe questions.
(Julia Ewan - The Washington Post)
