Description

These Holiday Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crumbly, and filled with the festive flavors of citrus zest and dried cranberries. A simple yet elegant treat perfect for holiday cookie platters or cozy winter evenings.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2/3 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 large orange)

3/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

Optional: 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for sprinkling

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Instructions

Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract, salt, and orange zest.
Gradually add the flour, mixing just until a dough forms. Do not overmix.
Fold in the finely chopped dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them about an inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Optional: Sprinkle tops with granulated sugar for a festive touch.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges just begin to turn golden.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Add 1/4 cup chopped pecans or pistachios for extra crunch.

Dip cooled cookies in melted dark or white chocolate for a decorative twist.

Use finely chopped fresh cranberries for a tangier version—just pat them dry first.

A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the cranberry-orange flavor.

Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 2 hours chill time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 35mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg