Description
Deliciously buttery shortbread cookies with a bright combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange flavor, perfect for sharing during the holidays or any festive occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and soften the butter at room temperature.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Other Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour, salt, and orange zest until combined. Fold in the dried cranberries gently.
- Shape the Cookies: Divide dough in half, shape into 2-inch diameter logs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice and Bake: Slice the dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place on cookie sheets, leaving space. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow cookies to cool before transferring to a wire rack and serve warm or store for later.
Notes
For a different twist, substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chocolate chips. You can also use lemon zest instead of orange for a citrus variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: shortbread cookies, cranberry orange, holiday cookies, baking recipes, desserts