Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies present an exquisite fusion of flavors that exudes elegance. The subtle buttery richness of the shortbread harmonizes beautifully with the bright, zesty notes of fresh orange and the tartness of cranberries, creating a refined treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies are not only delightful on the palate but also visually captivating, making them a sophisticated addition to your dessert table.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: A simple preparation process yields cookies that impress at gatherings.
- Minimal Ingredients: Crafted with just a handful of pantry staples, these cookies are both accessible and refined.
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of tangy cranberries and vibrant orange zest elevates the classic shortbread to delightful new heights.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
How to Make Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. The mixture should turn pale in color, showcasing a delicate texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Sift together flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter, mixing until just combined. Fold in the orange zest and finely chopped cranberries for a pop of color and flavor.
- Shape the Cookies: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shaping it into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and gives the cookies a better structure.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Slice and Bake: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving spacing for expansion. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges begin to golden. They should remain pale in the center for that perfect shortbread texture.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. For a lovely finish, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice, then drizzle over the cooled cookies.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
Present these cookies on a delicate porcelain plate, garnished with orange slices and mint leaves for an aromatic touch. For added sophistication, serve alongside a pot of rich Earl Grey tea, allowing the flavors to complement one another beautifully.
How to Store Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
To maintain their crispy exterior and tender interior, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If planning to enjoy them later, ensure they are completely cool before covering. For optimal flavor, consume within one week. Reheat briefly in a warm oven if they begin to lose their charm.
Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
- Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-fat butter for a richer flavor and smoother texture.
- Chill the Dough Adequately: Proper chilling time will help prevent spreading and enhance the cookie’s crumb.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to replace cranberries with other dried fruits such as apricots or cherries for a delightful twist.
Variation
For a luxurious upgrade, dip half of each cookie in white chocolate after glazing, allowing it to set before serving. This addition not only enhances the visual appeal but enriches the flavor profile remarkably.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries in this recipe?
Yes, but be aware that fresh cranberries are tart. Consider adding a bit of extra sugar to balance their acidity.
How thick should I slice the cookies?
Aim for approximately ¼ inch thickness to achieve that delightful shortbread texture. Too thick may lead to a chewy cookie, while too thin may result in a crisp one.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. The dough can be stored for up to three months. Slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies encapsulate the essence of elegance with their refined flavors and simple preparation. This recipe not only showcases culinary finesse but also invites you to explore your own artistic interpretations. Share your thoughts in the comments and don’t hesitate to share your creations on social media. How would you make this dish your own?
Print
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully elegant cookies combining buttery shortbread with zesty orange and tart cranberries, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze, optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Sift together flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter, mixing until just combined. Fold in the orange zest and finely chopped cranberries.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shaping it into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges begin to golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice, then drizzle over cooled cookies.
Notes
For added sophistication, serve the cookies with Earl Grey tea. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg