Name: Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: ½ cup dried cranberries (Craisins); ¾ cup granulated sugar, divided; 2½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 1 teaspoon almond extract; Zest of 1 large orange; 1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (optional); Additional sugar for coating (optional); 4 ounces white chocolate, melted (optional for dipping); ½ cup chopped pistachios or walnuts (optional); Extra orange zest for garnish

Indulging in the sweet, buttery goodness of cookies can be a highlight of any holiday season, and our Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are no exception. These delightful treats combine the tartness of dried cranberries with the freshness of orange zest, creating a perfect balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. The melt-in-your-mouth texture of shortbread cookies is a classic favorite, making these festive bites a must-try for any cookie lover.

Not only do they taste amazing, but these cookies are also incredibly simple to make. With a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as a delectable treat for yourself, the Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies will become a staple in your festive baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Delicious Flavors: The combination of tart cranberries and bright orange zest gives these cookies a unique and refreshing taste.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and only a few ingredients, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.
Perfectly Festive: Ideal for holiday celebrations, these cookies not only taste great but look beautiful on any dessert table.
Customizable: Add white chocolate or nuts for an extra touch of indulgence.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delightful process of making your Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and gather the necessary tools. Start by clearing and cleaning your kitchen counters to ensure a smooth workflow. Enlist a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent your cookies from sticking while they bake. Having a good quality food processor is crucial for chopping your cranberries to the perfect size to blend seamlessly into the cookie dough.

Additionally, invest in a mixing bowl and a pastry cutter or two forks, which are essential for cutting in the butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. For shaping and refrigerating your dough, some plastic wrap will be needed. Lastly, remember to have an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C), as a properly heated oven is key for achieving those perfectly baked cookies.

Ingredients

½ cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
2½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 teaspoon almond extract
Zest of 1 large orange
1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (optional)
Additional sugar for coating (optional)
4 ounces white chocolate, melted (optional for dipping)
½ cup chopped pistachios or walnuts (optional)
Extra orange zest for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries

Start your cookie adventure by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and setting it aside. Next, take your dried cranberries and place them into a food processor. Pulse the cranberries together with ¼ cup of granulated sugar until they are finely chopped. This step will help to distribute the sweetness of the sugar throughout the cookies, making each bite a final result of delicious tartness.

Step 2: Create the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining granulated sugar with the all-purpose flour. This forms the base of your cookie dough. Now, it’s time to introduce the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine crumbs. This method ensures that the butter remains cold, which is essential for achieving that light, crumbly texture that shortbread cookies are known for. Once you have a sandy texture, stir in the almond extract, cranberry-sugar mixture, orange zest, and if desired, freshly squeezed orange juice.

Step 3: Forming the Log

Now, knead the dough gently until it forms a smooth ball. If it feels too crumbly, don’t panic; just add a bit more orange juice to help it bind better. Shape this dough into a log that is about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days if you want to prepare it in advance. Chilling the dough is crucial, as it helps to firm it up and makes for easy slicing later.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Take the chilled log of dough and slice it into rounds about ¼ inch thick. If you’d like an extra touch of sweetness, roll each slice in sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be set and just lightly golden around the edges. Once done, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Optional Dipping

If you’re feeling indulgent, once the cookies are cool, consider dipping half of them in melted white chocolate. This will provide a rich, creamy complement to the tart cranberry and zesty orange flavor. To garnish, sprinkle some extra orange zest or chopped nuts on top of the chocolate before it sets.

Variations

Protein: Add crumbled bacon for a sweet and savory twist or chopped nuts for added crunch.
Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or sweet potatoes for a fun holiday variation.
Spices: Experiment with ground cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the festive flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
For brighter flavor, use fresh orange juice instead of bottled.
To prevent over-baking, check cookies a minute or two early; they should just barely be set.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Pair with a fresh fruit platter for a colorful dessert spread at holiday gatherings.

Tips

Sprinkle a little sea salt over the cookies after baking for an exciting flavor contrast.
Try incorporating flavored extracts like vanilla or coconut for a twist on the original.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 150 per cookie
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 50mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

It’s best to stick with dried cranberries for this recipe, as fresh ones contain too much moisture, which can affect the texture of the cookies.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain fresh for up to one week.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze the wrapped log of dough for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing.

What’s the best way to ensure my cookies are perfectly golden?

Monitor your cookies closely as they bake and remove them as soon as you see a light golden edge; they will continue to firm up on the baking sheet.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are not just a treat; they create an experience that brings comfort and warmth during the holiday season. With their sweet-tart flavor and buttery richness, it’s hard to resist having just one more. This recipe is straightforward and allows room for creativity through variations, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to delight your family and friends with these crowd-pleasing cookies. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures in the comments and enjoy the sweet success of your culinary creation!