Unique Fall Desserts That Aren't Pumpkin Spice

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Chai-Spiced Shortbread Cookies

Chai-spiced shortbread cookies bring together the buttery texture of classic shortbread with the warm, aromatic flavors of chai spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. These delicate cookies are perfectly complemented by a thin frosting drizzle, adding just the right amount of sweetness. They're the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or as a cozy afternoon snack.

Ingredients (for 24 cookies):

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cardamom
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Drizzle:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the cookies for 10-12 min. until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
6. To make the frosting drizzle, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the frosting over the cooled cookies.