Candy Cane Shortbread

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Butter a 7x11-inch glass baking dish.
2. 2
   Sift flour and cornstarch together in a bowl.
3. 3
   Place butter in mixing bowl. Add the salt and mix well. Then add granulated sugar to butter and mix to just combine. Add flour mixture and mix just till a smooth dough forms. This may be done with a mixer or in the food processor.
4. 4
   Pat dough evenly into prepared baking dish. Dough should be no more than 2/3-inch deep. Bake until the top and bottom are lightly browned, about 30 minutes. The middle should remain light.
5. 5
   Meanwhile, combine the powdered sugar and crushed candy canes.
6. 6
   Remove the baked dough from the oven and place on a rack. Sprinkle the shortbread with the candy cane mixture. When the baked dough has cooled a bit but is still warm to the touch, use a long knife to cut into 1-inch squares; 7 cuts lengthwise and 11 across. Cool thoroughly before removing from dish.