Print

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5.3 from 11 reviews

These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The buttery shortbread melts in your mouth while the cranberries and orange zest add a burst of freshness. A perfect cookie for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
  • ¾ cups sugar (divided)
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 to 2 tbsp fresh orange juice (optional)
  • Additional sugar to coat cookies before baking if desired

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cranberries: Combine cranberries and 1/4 cup of sugar in a food processor and process until broken down into smaller pieces. Set aside.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and remaining sugar. Cut in cold butter until you get fine crumbs. Add almond extract, cranberry-sugar mixture, orange zest, and orange juice. Knead the dough until it forms a ball.
  3. Shape and Chill: Shape the dough into a log, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Preheat and Slice: Preheat oven to 325°F. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  5. Coat and Bake: Coat the cookie slices in sugar, place on a baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes until set. Do not overbake.
  6. Cool and Store: Let the cookies cool on the sheet before transferring to a rack. Store in an airtight container or freeze for later enjoyment.

Notes

  • You can customize these cookies by adding chopped nuts or white chocolate chips to the dough.
  • For a more intense orange flavor, increase the amount of orange zest used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/cranberry-orange-shortbread-cookies-recipe/