These Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat, combining buttery goodness with a zesty citrus twist and bursts of tart cranberry. They’re perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a sweet snack!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries (chopped if large)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Add Cranberries and Orange
Fold in the chopped cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
6. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is fine as they will firm up as they cool.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Enjoy
Enjoy your Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips for Success
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Variations: Substitute the cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different flavor twist.
- Serving Suggestion: Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch!
These cookies are sure to be a hit, bringing a burst of flavor and joy to your holiday gatherings or everyday snacking! ✨