Description

These buttery Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are delicately crisp with bright citrus flavor from orange zest and juice, balanced by the sweetness of dried cranberries. Perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or an elegant tea-time treat.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2/3 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Zest of 1 large orange

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed)

Optional: 2–3 tablespoons coarse sugar for rolling

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Instructions

Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and orange zest.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
Stir in the chopped cranberries and orange juice until the dough comes together.
Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a 2-inch diameter log, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 2 hours.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If desired, roll edges in coarse sugar.
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading during baking.

Cookies can be frozen before or after baking for up to 2 months.

Add chopped pistachios or swap cranberries for cherries for variations.

Drizzle with white chocolate for a festive finish.

Do not use fresh cranberries as they add too much moisture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg