Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sifted through my pantry, a vibrant bag of fresh cranberries caught my eye, sparking a delicious idea: Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies. These delightful treats combine a buttery texture with the zesty brightness of orange and the tartness of cranberries, creating an utterly irresistible holiday snack. One of the greatest perks of this recipe is its simplicity—perfect for those who want to whip up something special without spending all day in the kitchen. Not only do they add a festive touch to any cookie platter, but they also make for a thoughtful gift that friends and family will cherish. So, why not let the spirit of the season inspire your baking and create a batch that will genuinely warm hearts? Are you ready to dive into this festive flavor adventure? Why Choose This Cookie Recipe? Simplicity at Its Best: The straightforward steps make these Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies ideal for bakers of all levels, letting you focus on flavor. Buttery Indulgence: Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with your favorite holiday teas. Festive Appeal: With vibrant colors and a zesty aroma, they elevate any cookie platter, making them a hit at gatherings or as gifts. Versatile Options: Feel free to play around! Try drizzling with white chocolate or adding nuts for extra crunch, providing unique twists to your cookie experience. Quick Prep: In just a short time, you can create a batch of festive treats, perfect for last-minute celebrations or cozy evenings at home. Get ready to impress loved ones with these uniquely delicious cookies and explore more options like Homemade Samoas Cookies or Orange Glazed Salmon for a complete holiday feast! Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour (1 ¼ cup / 155 g) – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. Granulated Sugar (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon / 75 g) – Adds sweetness; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index. Cornstarch (1 tablespoon / 8 g) – Creates a tender texture; can be omitted for crumblier shortbread. Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; use sea salt for better taste. Unsalted Butter (1 stick / 113 g, cold and cubed) – Adds richness and moisture; vegan butter can be substituted for a dairy-free option. Fresh Cranberries (¼ cup / 40 g, finely chopped) – Adds tartness; fresh recommended for best flavor, can substitute with dried cranberries and adjust milk in the dough. Orange Zest (½ tablespoon) – Infuses citrus flavor; freshly grated lemon or lime zest can be used as an alternative. For the Glaze Powdered Sugar (⅔ cup / 80 g) – Used for the glaze; make your own by blending granulated sugar finely. Orange Juice (3 teaspoons / 15 g) – Mixed with powdered sugar for glaze flavor; lemon juice can be used for a different tart flavor. Explore creating your own delightful Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Step 1: Dough Preparation In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix well until evenly distributed. Add 1 stick of cold, cubed unsalted butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles wet sand, about 3 minutes. Finally, stir in ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cranberries and ½ tablespoon orange zest until just combined. Step 2: Shaping Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper, and knead it gently into a smooth ball. With a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 4×12 inches thick. Once shaped, wrap the dough in the parchment paper and place it in the freezer for 20 minutes. This chilling step helps the Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies hold their shape while baking. Step 3: Baking Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Once mixed dough is firm, remove it from the freezer and cut it into 24 stick shapes. Arrange the sticks on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes, checking for lightly browned edges, and adjust their shape immediately with a spatula if needed after baking. Step 4: Glazing After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by combining ⅔ cup powdered sugar with 3 teaspoons of orange juice until smooth. Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of each cookie, letting it drip down the sides for a festive look. Make Ahead Options These Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, shaping it into a rectangle, and wrapping it tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap. This helps the flavors meld beautifully while the dough chills in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply slice the chilled dough into sticks and bake as per the recipe instructions. Additionally, you can also make the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, maintaining their deliciously buttery texture and festive zing! What to Serve with Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies These delightful cookies are perfect for enhancing your holiday gatherings, creating a cozy atmosphere filled with joy and flavor. Festive Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this drink pairs beautifully with the buttery cookies, providing a warm counterbalance to their crisp texture. The sweetness of the cocoa complements the tartness of cranberries, making every sip a holiday delight. Creamy Eggnog: This classic holiday beverage’s rich, spiced flavor enhances the citrus notes in the cookies, creating an indulgent treat. Eggnog’s silky texture ensures a luxurious pairing that will warm your guests’ hearts. Citrusy Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of oranges, berries, and pomegranates adds bright, lively flavors, contrasting with the buttery softness of the cookies. The fruit’s juiciness creates a lively balance on your festive table. Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai—ginger, cloves, and cardamom—pair wonderfully with the orange zest in the cookies, making for a deliciously warming experience. Sip on this delightful drink while enjoying the cookies, and you’ll feel the festive warmth envelop you! Buttery Shortbread Biscotti: A crunchy accompaniment with similar flavors, biscotti can be dipped into coffee or tea, enhancing the cookie experience. Their almond notes bring additional depth, creating a beautiful balance. Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream offsets the cookies’ crunch, adding a delightful contrast. A scoop alongside your cookies creates a classic dessert experience sure to please all. Cheese Platter: A spread of brie or sharp cheddar can elevate your dessert table, complementing the sweet and tart flavors of the cookies. Pair them with some nuts and dried fruits for a well-rounded taste sensation. Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries: The richness of dark chocolate paired with sweet, juicy strawberries elevates your dessert offering. Their contrast with crunchy cookies creates a symphony of flavors and textures. Herbal Tea: An inviting chamomile or peppermint tea enhances the sweetness of the cookies while providing a calming finish to your day. Perfect for sipping while enjoying a cozy evening by the fire! Apple Cider Donuts: These soft, spiced treats bring an additional layer of sweetness and warmth, perfect for themed gatherings. Their apple flavor harmonizes beautifully with the cranberry and orange notes in the cookies. How to Store and Freeze Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Room Temperature: Keep these cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days; this preserves their delightful buttery texture while preventing them from becoming stale. Fridge: For slightly extended freshness, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for about 10 days, though they may lose some of their crispness. Freezer: Freeze Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies in a single layer, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. Reheating: If desired, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore a bit of crunch before serving or gifting. Expert Tips for Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Measuring Flour: Use a kitchen scale for accuracy when measuring flour, ensuring your Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies maintain the perfect texture. Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the butter solidify, resulting in a firmer dough and beautifully shaped cookies. Avoid Overmixing: Mix ingredients just until combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture you want. Fresh Cranberries: For an optimum flavor, use fresh cranberries; if you opt for dried, remember to adjust the dough moisture to avoid dryness. Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven fully to 325°F (163°C) for even baking and to achieve that lovely light golden brown color on your cookies. Reshape After Baking: If your cookies spread out too much, gently reshape them with an offset spatula while they are still warm to ensure they’re perfect for enjoying or gifting. Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Variations Feel free to get creative with these Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, transforming them into your personal signature treat. Imagine the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen as you experiment! Chocolate Drizzle: Top with melted dark chocolate after glazing for an indulgent twist. The bittersweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries. Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch with each bite. Nuts bring in a warm, earthy flavor that complements the zesty glaze. Zesty Lemon Blend: Swap out orange zest for lemon zest to create a fresh citrus variation. The result is a bright and refreshing cookie that’s perfect for sunny days. Dried Fruit Medley: Substitute dried cranberries with a mix of dried cherries and apricots for a deliciously chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor. This mix adds a unique twist and vibrant color. Coconut Bliss: Add unsweetened shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flair. The coconut provides a subtle sweetness and a lovely chewiness that balances the tart cranberries nicely. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or ginger powder into the dough for a warm spicy note. These spices elevate the flavor profile, making them even more comforting. Ginger Glaze: Replace orange juice in the glaze with ginger juice for a spicy-sweet topping. It adds a delightful zing to the cookies that will keep your taste buds dancing. For even more delicious cookie ideas, check out my Peanut Butter Cookies or explore the rich flavors in Browned Butter Cookies. Each option presents a great opportunity for seasonal baking adventures! Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right cranberries? Absolutely! Fresh cranberries should be bright red and firm; avoid any that have dark spots or are soft. For best results, stick with fresh fruit to capture that vibrant tartness. If fresh isn’t available, use dried cranberries, remembering to incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of milk into the dough for moisture. What’s the best way to store these cookies? To keep your Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe container. Can I freeze these cookies? How? Certainly! To freeze your cookies, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should maintain good quality for about 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature! What if my dough is too crumbly or dry? Very! If the dough seems too dry, add milk one teaspoon at a time until it holds together. Make sure your butter is cold and cubed properly; this helps in maintaining the right texture. Overmixing can also lead to a crumbly consistency, so mix only until just combined. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you’re making these cookies for someone with allergies, ensure to swap out the butter for a dairy-free alternative, like vegan butter. Those with gluten sensitivities can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Always check for allergies, especially regarding cranberries, before baking to keep everyone safe and happy! Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies for Festive Bliss Delight in the vibrant flavors of Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, a festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1.25 cup all-purpose flour substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option0.33 cup granulated sugar coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index1 tablespoon cornstarch can be omitted for crumblier shortbread0.25 teaspoon salt use sea salt for better taste1 stick unsalted butter cold and cubed; vegan butter can be substituted for a dairy-free option0.25 cup fresh cranberries finely chopped; fresh recommended for best flavor0.5 tablespoon orange zest freshly grated lemon or lime zest can be used as an alternativeFor the Glaze0.67 cup powdered sugar make your own by blending granulated sugar finely3 teaspoons orange juice lemon juice can be used for a different tart flavor Equipment Mixing bowlRolling PinBaking sheetParchment paperwire rack Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix well until evenly distributed. Add 1 stick of cold, cubed unsalted butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles wet sand, about 3 minutes. Finally, stir in ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cranberries and ½ tablespoon orange zest until just combined.Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper, and knead it gently into a smooth ball. With a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 4x12 inches thick. Once shaped, wrap the dough in the parchment paper and place it in the freezer for 20 minutes.Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Once mixed dough is firm, remove it from the freezer and cut it into 24 stick shapes. Arrange the sticks on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes.After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by combining ⅔ cup powdered sugar with 3 teaspoons of orange juice until smooth. Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of each cookie. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 30mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, measure flour with a kitchen scale and chill the dough properly. Use fresh cranberries for optimal flavor and preheat the oven fully to ensure even baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
