There is something absolutely magical about the perfect holiday cookie, and this Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe is just that—a delightful blend of buttery richness with bright, zesty citrus and tart cranberries all wrapped into one tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite. If you’re after a cookie that feels like a cozy kitchen hug and serves up joy in every nibble, this recipe is the one you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again. The combination of ingredients and that signature shortbread crumb make these cookies an instant classic for cookie lovers everywhere.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe beauties is as simple as gathering a few staple ingredients that together create magic. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and that irresistible look.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): This forms the rich, tender base of your shortbread and is essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup): Provides sweetness and contributes to the delicate crumb without any grittiness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth, enhancing all the flavors without overpowering.
- Orange zest (2 tablespoons): The fresh zest from about two oranges brings a vibrant citrus burst that brightens the cookies beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Gives structure while keeping the cookies light and tender.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and amplifies the flavor nuances.
- Dried cranberries, finely chopped (¾ cup): Offers a lovely chewy contrast and a subtle tartness that’s perfectly complemented by the orange.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons, optional): For rolling the cookie edges to add a little sparkle and an extra touch of sweetness before baking.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the butter and sugar
Start by beating the softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air, helping create that iconic tender texture in the shortbread. Make sure the butter is truly soft but not melted for the best results.
Step 2: Add vanilla and orange zest
Next, stir in the vanilla extract and fresh orange zest. This is the part where your kitchen starts to smell heavenly—those fragrant citrus oils and sweet vanilla in perfect harmony set the stage for a flavor-packed cookie.
Step 3: Combine dry ingredients
Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt. Be careful not to overmix here—just until you see the dough coming together. Overworking the dough can make your cookies tough, and we definitely want soft, buttery bites!
Step 4: Fold in cranberries
Gently fold in the finely chopped dried cranberries. These little bursts of tartness add both texture and vibrant color, turning simple shortbread into something truly festive and fun.
Step 5: Shape and chill the dough
Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a log about two inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into the fridge for at least an hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to slice the cookies and helping them hold their shape during baking.
Step 6: Slice and prepare for baking
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the dough logs into ¼-inch rounds, spacing them about an inch apart on the sheet. If you want a little extra sparkle and sweetness, gently roll the edges of each cookie in granulated sugar before placing them on the tray.
Step 7: Bake to perfection
Bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes, just until the edges begin to turn a light golden. Be mindful not to overbake as these cookies shine with their delicate, buttery texture. Let them cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of extra orange zest on top instantly elevates the look and flavor of these cookies. For a festive touch, consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or adding a sprig of rosemary on the serving platter to emphasize the holiday vibe.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, fresh brewed coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. For an impressive dessert spread, serve alongside spiced mulled wine or a chilled glass of sparkling wine to balance the sweet and tart flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by stacking the cookies tied with a pretty ribbon for gifts, or arrange them on a festive platter with some fresh cranberries and orange slices. They also work beautifully as part of a cookie exchange or holiday party dessert table where their bright colors and inviting aroma steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once baked and completely cooled, store your Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them crisp on the outside and tender inside. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing
The dough logs freeze exceptionally well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, freezing for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice off your desired amount and bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time as needed.
Reheating
If you want that just-baked warmth, gently heat a few cookies in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. This revives that fresh-from-the-oven feeling without compromising texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried ones?
Fresh cranberries have a lot of moisture, which can affect the cookie’s texture and baking time. It’s best to use dried cranberries for this recipe to maintain the ideal crumb and chewiness.
Do I have to use orange zest, or can I use extract instead?
Fresh orange zest brings a bright, natural citrus flavor that orange extract just can’t match. If you don’t have zest handy, you can substitute extract, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the cookies.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, you can make these cookies gluten-free. Just be sure your blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help hold the dough together properly.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to slice and helping the cookies maintain a beautiful shape during baking. It also lets the flavors meld, especially the orange and cranberry.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?
Absolutely! Fully baked and cooled cookies freeze well. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag and enjoy them thawed or slightly reheated for a fresh taste anytime.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to make a cookie that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with delight, give the Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe a try. With its simple ingredients and an approachable method, this recipe transforms everyday basics into something truly special. Whether for holiday gatherings or an everyday treat, these cookies never fail to impress and satisfy – I can’t wait for you to taste them!
Print
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies, a perfect buttery treat infused with fresh orange zest and studded with tangy dried cranberries. These slice-and-bake cookies balance a tender crumb with festive flavors, making them an ideal dessert for holiday celebrations or any cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange zest (about 2 oranges)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
For Rolling (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the pure vanilla extract and freshly grated orange zest thoroughly to infuse the dough with bright, citrus notes.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the finely chopped dried cranberries, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough.
- Shape and Chill: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Slice the Dough: Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and slice into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place slices on the prepared baking sheet spaced about 1 inch apart.
- Optional Sugar Coating: If desired, roll the edges of each cookie slice in granulated sugar for added sparkle and sweetness.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preserving their crisp texture.
Notes
- These cookies freeze well—store dough logs in the freezer and slice and bake as needed for fresh cookies any time.
- For an extra festive touch, drizzle cooled cookies with white chocolate.
- Fresh orange zest is essential for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
