The scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house is one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. If you’re like me, you know there’s something special about the perfect combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange that instantly brightens up your day. That’s why I can’t wait to share my recipe for Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies. This easy slice-and-bake treat brings both warmth and cheer to any gathering, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is to whip them up.
Imagine pulling these tender, buttery cookies from the oven, their vibrant red cranberries peeking through, just begging to be shared. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or included in a festive cookie platter, these delightful cookies are sure to impress. Best of all, they lend themselves to variations that fit your preferences. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will become a go-to for years to come!
Why Will You Love Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: The tartness of cranberries blends beautifully with the zesty orange, creating an unforgettable taste that celebrates the season.
Easy to Make: This slice-and-bake recipe requires minimal prep and is perfect for bakers of all levels, letting you enjoy delicious cookies without stress.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with ingredients—swap cranberries for blueberries or add nuts for a delightful twist!
Ideal for Gifting: Wrapped in decorative tins, these cookies make lovely gifts, spreading joy during the holidays.
Make Ahead Option: Prep the dough in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer—perfect for last-minute baking!
With these cookies, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that brightens any festive occasion!
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and lightens the texture; can be swapped for alternative sweeteners if desired.
- Orange Zest – Imparts bright, zesty flavor; only use the colorful outer part, avoiding the bitter white pith.
- Fresh Cranberries – Adds a tart burst and festive color; dried cranberries can be used for convenience.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth and harmonizes the tartness of the cranberries.
These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face with their festive flavors!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
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Chop Cranberries: Start by roughly chopping the fresh cranberries and setting them aside. This will enhance their flavor throughout the cookies.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a food processor, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and fragrant orange zest until the mixture is well blended and fluffy.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and pure vanilla extract; pulse until the dough is just combined, ensuring not to overmix for that perfect crumbly texture.
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Mix in Cranberries: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries with a few pulses—be careful not to over-process as you want the fruit’s tartness to shine through.
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Shape the Dough: Shape the mixture into a 10-12 inch log and tightly wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to firm up.
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Preheat Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Slice the Dough: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/3-inch rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared sheet, ensuring they are spaced about two inches apart.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are pale with a slightly golden bottom. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies?
Indulge in these delightful cookies alongside vibrant accompaniments that enhance their festive flavor.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate perfectly complements the buttery sweetness of the cookies, making each bite oh-so comforting.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of citrus and berries brightens the palate, providing a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ richness. The play of flavors adds a delightful twist to your dessert spread.
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Sparkling Cider: The effervescence of sparkling cider elevates the festive feel of your gathering, while its mild sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the tart cranberries.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful chill, balancing the warmth of freshly baked cookies and creating a delightful dessert duo.
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Spiced Tea: Enjoy a cup of warm spiced tea to enhance your cookie experience. The aromatic spices enhance the cookie’s flavor profile, creating a cozy moment that celebrates the season.
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White Chocolate Drizzle: Add a simple white chocolate drizzle for a touch of decadence. It creates a beautiful finish that amplifies sweetness, marrying delightfully with the cranberry’s tartness.
With these pairing suggestions, your cranberry orange shortbread cookies will surely shine in any holiday celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This helps maintain their tender texture and fresh taste.
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Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Just ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: Freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and foil for best results. Slice and bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time.
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Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will refresh their delightful flavor and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for a smooth, creamy dough that blends well with the sugar and zest.
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Chop Cranberries Evenly: For uniform baking, dice the cranberries roughly the same size. This helps distribute their tartness evenly throughout the cookies.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the ingredients, pulse until just mixed. Overmixing can toughen the dough, preventing that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture typical of shortbread.
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Chill Before Baking: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This step allows the cookies to maintain their shape while baking, resulting in perfect, round cookies.
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Experiment with Variations: Have fun with your Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies! Try adding chopped nuts or swapping cranberries for your favorite dried fruit to create exciting new flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the dough up to 3 days in advance by shaping it into a log and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator so it stays fresh and maintains its rich flavor. For even longer storage, freeze the wrapped log for up to 3 months—just make sure to label it with the date! When you’re ready to bake, slice the chilled dough into rounds and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings!
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to add your unique twist to these delightful cookies with these refreshing ideas!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive treat.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap cranberries for blueberries or diced dried cherries to create a fruity variation bursting with flavor.
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Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the buttery texture beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch that adds sweetness and richness.
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Citrus Twist: Mix in lemon or lime zest along with the orange zest for an extra zing of brightness that will invigorate your taste buds.
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Spice It Up: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, aromatic kick that evokes the cozy holiday vibes.
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Cranberry-Orange Glaze: Create a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar, orange juice, and dried cranberries; drizzle over the cookies for that extra festive flair.
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Heat Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the dough for a surprising and tantalizing spicy twist that balances out the sweetness.
With these variations, you’re sure to delight friends and family, creating memorable moments around the table!
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or dried cranberries for this recipe. Fresh cranberries will give the cookies a lovely tart flavor and bright color, while dried cranberries are a convenient alternative that provides sweetness. If using fresh cranberries, make sure they are firm and vibrant without dark spots or bruises.
How should I store the cookies after baking?
After baking, store your Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days; just make sure they are well-sealed to maintain their lovely texture and taste.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Yes, you can freeze this recipe! First, wrap the unbaked dough log tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, slice the dough directly from frozen, adding an additional minute or two to the bake time. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies any time!
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If you find that your dough is too crumbly and won’t hold together, don’t worry! You can add a teaspoon of cold water or milk, one at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid over-mixing, as you still want that tender, crumbly texture typical of shortbread.
Are these cookies suitable for dietary restrictions?
If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your cranberries and any additional ingredients are also gluten-free. For vegan options, consider replacing the butter with a plant-based alternative and using a suitable sweetener.
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies for Joyful Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by roughly chopping the fresh cranberries and setting them aside.
- In a food processor, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and fragrant orange zest until the mixture is well blended and fluffy.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and pure vanilla extract; pulse until the dough is just combined, ensuring not to overmix for that perfect crumbly texture.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries with a few pulses—be careful not to over-process as you want the fruit's tartness to shine through.
- Shape the mixture into a 10-12 inch log and tightly wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to firm up.
- When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/3-inch rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared sheet, ensuring they are spaced about two inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are pale with a slightly golden bottom.
- Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.