Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful treat that perfectly blends a burst of citrus with the tartness of berries, these Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are an absolute must-try. Imagine buttery, tender shortbread speckled with bright, fresh cranberries and a zesty hit of orange that makes every bite just sing. This recipe is not only simple to make but brings such a fresh and festive flavor to the table, making these cookies a heavenly snack or a sweet finishing touch to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies lies in their simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of rich, crumbly texture and lively citrus and fruit flavors.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookies, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that delicate crispness on the edges.
• Cornstarch: A secret ingredient that makes the shortbread irresistibly tender and crumbly.
• Salt: Highlights the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: The star of shortbread, bringing rich flavor and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Fresh cranberries: Provides bursts of tart freshness and lovely specks of color throughout the cookies.
• Orange zest: Infuses a bright aromatic note that elevates the cookies to a new level of deliciousness.
• Powdered sugar (for glaze): Gives the perfect sweet finish for drizzling over the baked cookies.
• Orange juice (for glaze): Combines with powdered sugar to create a tangy glaze that complements every bite.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Begin by combining your flour, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large bowl with a paddle attachment on your mixer. This ensures that all your dry elements are evenly blended, setting the foundation for your buttery cookie dough.

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to your dry mix and mix until the mixture turns sandy and begins to clump together. This step is essential for developing the perfect crumbly texture characteristic of authentic shortbread.

Step 3: Fold in Cranberries and Orange Zest

Gently stir in the finely chopped fresh cranberries and the fragrant orange zest. These ingredients bring bursts of tartness and citrus aroma that truly define Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough onto parchment paper and knead it into a smooth ball. Then, place another sheet of parchment on top and roll out the dough into a 4-by-12-inch rectangle. This shape helps you slice the cookies evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Pop the dough in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up — this chill time makes slicing much easier. After that, slice the dough into 24 sticks and place them neatly on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or parchment paper.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies at 325°F for around 20 minutes or until the edges begin to turn a delicate golden brown. Pro tip: If the cookies look a little misshapen straight from the oven, use two offset spatulas to gently squeeze them into shape while they’re still warm.

Step 7: Add the Glaze

While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cookies using a pastry bag or a squeeze bottle for a beautiful glossy finish that seals in the zesty flavors.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some finely grated orange zest or whole dried cranberries on top of the glaze. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the aromatic experience of each bite.

Side Dishes

Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies pair perfectly with a hot cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee. They also make a charming accompaniment to a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies on a festive platter surrounded by fresh orange slices and sprigs of rosemary to create a seasonal centerpiece that beckons guests to indulge. Alternatively, pack them in clear cellophane bags tied with a bright ribbon for delightful homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain freshness and that perfect crumbly texture.

Freezing

To enjoy these cookies well beyond a week, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.

Reheating

When you’re ready for a treat, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature. If you prefer them a bit warm, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh their buttery goodness without losing their delicate texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries, but fresh cranberries provide a brighter, juicier bite. If using dried, chop them finely and add 1-2 teaspoons of milk to keep the dough moist.

Why is cornstarch included in the recipe?

Cornstarch helps tenderize the shortbread, making the cookies crumbly and soft while maintaining a delicate structure. You can omit it if you prefer a more traditional, crumblier bite.

How thick should the cookie dough be rolled out?

Roll the dough into a 4×12-inch rectangle about ½ inch thick. This size helps you slice uniform cookies that bake evenly and hold their shape.

What is the best way to store these cookies to keep them fresh?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them longer, freezing is ideal and does not negatively affect texture or flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

While this recipe is for regular all-purpose flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Just be sure to check for comparable texture and adjust liquid elements if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so joyful about the way Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies combine buttery richness with fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cozy get-together, or just a sweet craving, these cookies will quickly become a beloved favorite. Give this recipe a whirl—you deserve that little moment of bliss in every buttery, tangy bite!

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