Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors. They are easy to make and require simple ingredients that you might already have at home. These cookies are buttery, crumbly, and go great with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or just as a treat for yourself. Plus, the bright orange zest combined with the tartness of cranberries makes them a delightful snack any time of the year.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until a dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped dried cranberries.
- Shape the dough into a 2-inch diameter log, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
These cookies are best served with a warm cup of tea or coffee. You can also enjoy them on their own as a snack. For a festive touch, you can dust powdered sugar over the cookies before serving. They are perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet treat during a cozy afternoon.
How to Store Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chill the dough thoroughly before slicing to make cutting easier and to help maintain the shape.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of orange zest or cranberries according to your taste preferences.
Variation
You can customize these cookies by adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch. Another tasty variation would be to dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a richer flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
A: While you can use fresh cranberries, they are much more tart. If you do, consider adding a bit more sugar to balance the flavor.
Q: How long can I keep the dough in the fridge?
A: You can keep the dough wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days before slicing and baking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven for the cookies.
