Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the essence of the holiday season. The buttery, crumbly texture of shortbread combines beautifully with the tartness of cranberries and the bright zest of fresh oranges. Whether you’re baking for a festive get-together, holiday gift-giving, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies offer a unique flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. I still remember the joy of baking these cookies with my grandmother, filling the kitchen with sweet and tangy aromas.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

There are several reasons why you’ll love making Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The recipe doesn’t require any fancy equipment, just bowls and a good mixing utensil. Plus, these cookies are budget-friendly, utilizing simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The bright flavors of cranberry and orange elevate your typical shortbread, making them perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or even just a cozy afternoon treat.

“These cookies are a hit every time! The combination of cranberries and orange is simply irresistible. I bake them during the holidays, and they never last long!” — Sarah, dedicated home baker

Preparing Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Making these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies requires just a few simple steps, from mixing the dough to letting the cookies cool. You’ll start by creaming the butter and sugar, adding the cranberries and orange zest, and forming the dough into logs. After chilling, it’s just a matter of slicing and baking. It’s a straightforward process that yields delicious results, perfect for gifting or holiday celebrations.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the cookies, you will need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

If you’re looking to make adjustments, feel free to substitute the cranberries with dried cherries or raisins, and use lemon zest for a different citrus twist!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
4. Fold in the chopped cranberries, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a log, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Once chilled, slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving or storing.

Creative Ways to Serve

When it comes to serving these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies, there are many delightful options. Serve them on a decorative platter alongside a warm beverage, such as spiced tea or hot cocoa. You could also plate them with a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra presentation. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with orange-infused cream cheese frosting for a sweet dip.

Best Way to Store Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

To keep your Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, these cookies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before indulging.

Expert Tips

For an even more flavorful cookie, try toasting the chopped cranberries before stirring them into the dough. This adds an extra layer of richness. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the flour; this helps keep your cookies tender and crumbly. If you’d like a little extra sweetness, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled cookies.

Creative Twists

If you want to put a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding walnuts or pecans for some crunch. You can also experiment with different flavored extracts such as almond, or even include a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough for a warm spice note. Vegan alternatives can be achieved by substituting the butter with coconut oil and the powdered sugar with a vegan-friendly option.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?

The total time from prep to bake is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, which includes chilling the dough.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries will add more moisture to the cookies. If you decide to use them, consider increasing the sugar to offset their tartness, and possibly reducing the overall flour slightly.

How should I serve these cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot beverage like tea or coffee. They also make an excellent addition to holiday cookie platters!

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for the edges to be slightly golden. The center of the cookies might still appear soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.

With their delightful flavor and simple preparation, these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire!

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful shortbread cookies featuring tart cranberries and bright orange zest, perfect for holiday celebrations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
4. Fold in the chopped cranberries, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a log, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Once chilled, slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving or storing.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To serve, dust with powdered sugar or pair with orange-infused cream cheese frosting.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: cookies, shortbread, holiday baking, cranberry, orange, dessert