Print

Zesty Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies – A Sweet Treat

Print Recipe

These Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery shortbread, zesty orange, and sweet-tart cranberries. Perfect for sharing during the holidays or enjoying with a warm cup of tea.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter, cold and cut into cubes
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • Zest of 1 Orange (preferably Navel or Valencia)
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries, roughly chopped
  • Pinch of Salt (if using unsalted butter)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment: Gather all your ingredients and ensure your cold unsalted butter is cut into ½-inch cubes. Have your orange zested and cranberries chopped. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold butter cubes, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter). Beat on medium-low speed until the mixture is just combined and slightly crumbly.
  3. Add Orange Zest: Add the fresh orange zest to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue to beat on low speed for another minute to allow the zest's essential oils to infuse into the butter.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, a third at a time, mixing on the lowest speed until just combined.
  5. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries using a spatula or by hand until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  6. Form the Dough: Turn the crumbly dough out onto a clean surface. Using your hands, gently press and knead the dough just until it comes together into a cohesive ball.
  7. Shape and Chill: Shape the dough into an 8×8-inch square or roll it into a log about 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30-60 minutes.
  8. Slice and Bake: If you made a log, unwrap it and slice it into ½-inch thick rounds. Arrange the cookies about 1 inch apart on your prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
  10. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Keywords: For the best texture, keep the butter cold and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing excessive spreading during baking.

Find it online: https://crumella.com/zesty-orange-cranberry-shortbread-cookies-a-sweet-treat/