These mushroom-shaped shortbread cookies are fun and easy to make plus they never go unnoticed. Watch them take the spotlight on a food table of every gathering.
With an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Add eggs and almond extract and beat shortly until combined.
Stir in flour, cornstarch, and baking powder and mix or knead until soft dough forms. The dough should not stick to your fingers. Add more flour if necessary.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Using a tablespoon, take a small amount of dough and roll between your hands into a ball. Place on a large parchment paper-lined baking pan or nonstick cookie sheet.
Here's the trick to the mushrooms: Using the top of a glass bottle without the cap, dip the top into water then into cocoa powder. Gently press into each ball of dough and remove carefully.
Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Oven temperatures vary, so keep your eye on the cookies so they don't burn.
Roll tops of cookies in the fine sugar, if desired.
Notes
~ Free Tip ~ Add lemon zest and vanilla instead of almond extract, or add herbs like sage or rosemary for a sweet/savory version. Serve on a bed of "dirt" - crushed Oreo cookies.