For the Tea Lover

Whether the recipient loves hosting tea parties or prefers solitary comfort, these classic tea-time goodies are sure to be a hit.

Peppermint Shortbread

Make sure you include the fresh peppermint �?it’s the key to this shortbread’s great flavor. The finished shortbread keeps up to a week.

3�? cup (11�? sticks) unsalted butter, softened
9 tablespoons sugar
11�? tablespoons brown sugar
1 egg
1�? teaspoon vanilla extract
3�? teaspoon peppermint extract
2 cups flour
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh peppermint leaves
1�? teaspoon salt

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and extracts. Add flour while beating on low speed. Stir in peppermint leaves and salt. Divide dough into three portions. Place on plastic wrap and roll into cylinders, 11�? inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour or until firm. (This dough can be made ahead and frozen unbaked for one month. Thaw slightly in refrigerator before baking.)

Unwrap dough and slice into 1�?-inch-thick slices. Place slices close together on baking sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until bottom edges are just barely brown. Remove to rack to cool. Makes 5 dozen cookies.