This Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookie recipe combines the sweet, buttery flavor of shortbread with the tartness of cranberries and the bright citrusy zest of orange, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the orange zest and orange juice for a tangy citrus flavor.
Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour in two batches, adding the cranberries with the second batch. Gently mix until just combined, forming a dough.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a log. Wrap the log in cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on a lined baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.
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Notes
Fresh Cranberries can be used in place of dried. Just slice them into small bite size pieces before using. Do not crush.
Be sure to chill the dough for at least an hour, or overnight for the best results. Chilled dough is easier to slice and holds its shape better during baking.
Try to slice the dough as evenly as possible. Uneven slices can lead to some cookies baking faster than others, with thinner slices becoming overcooked or crunchy. For a softer texture, slice the dough about ¼ inch thick. For a crispier cookie, bake for a few extra minutes.
Baking times may vary depending on your oven and how thick or thin you slice the cookies. Keep an eye on them, and adjust the baking time as necessary. You can always check for golden edges to ensure they’re baked just right.