Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sweet aroma of citrus and berries wafts through my kitchen as I prepare to bake my beloved Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies. These buttery treats seamlessly blend the tangy burst of dried cranberries with a zesty kick from orange, creating a perfect harmony that captures the essence of the holiday spirit. Not only are they incredibly beginner-friendly, but they also make for a delightful addition to any festive gathering or cozy afternoon tea. With pantry staples at your fingertips and just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of 24 cookies ready to share—or keep all to yourself—with minimal fuss. Curious about how these flavors come together to form a melt-in-your-mouth experience? Let’s dive into this seasonal delight! Why is this shortbread cookie special? Unique flavors: The bright notes of orange zest paired with chewy cranberries create a refreshing twist that elevates traditional shortbread to a festive delight. Beginner-friendly: With simple instructions and pantry staples, even novice bakers can craft these cookies with ease. Perfect for sharing: These cookies are a crowd-pleaser, making them an ideal addition to holiday trays or gift baskets. Versatile: Customize with nuts or spices to suit your taste, ensuring a unique batch every time you bake. Quick to prepare: Whip up 24 cookies in under an hour, perfect for last-minute holiday baking! Great for pairing: The cozy flavors complement beverages like Apple Cranberry Coleslaw or a cup of spiced tea, creating a festive experience. Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Ingredients For the Dough • Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture; use margarine as a dairy-free alternative but expect slight flavor changes. • Powdered Sugar – Adds delicate sweetness and ensures a fine consistency; can substitute granulated sugar, though it may affect texture. • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies, yielding a tender bite that complements the shortbread experience. • Salt – Balances and enhances sweetness, highlighting the cranberry and orange flavors in each cozy bite. • Vanilla Extract – Offers depth and richness to the overall flavor profile, making the cookies extra inviting. • Orange Zest – Infuses bright citrus notes and essential oils, elevating the cozy cranberry orange shortbread flavor. • Dried Cranberries – Delivers chewiness and a tangy burst; feel free to substitute with raisins or cherries for variety. • Almond Extract (optional) – Adds a subtle nutty aroma to the mix; omit if you prefer a purely cranberry-orange taste. • Extra Powdered Sugar (for dusting, optional) – Enhances visual appeal and sweetness after baking, making your cookies even more tempting. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin your cozy baking experience by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick. This tiny detail will make your cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies easy to transfer once they’re baked and golden. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar Next, in a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step. Properly creamed butter adds that melt-in-your-mouth quality to your shortbread. Step 3: Add the Flavorings Once your butter and sugar are perfectly creamed, it’s time to mix in the flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and, if desired, 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Blend these in until they’re well combined, allowing the cozy cranberry orange shortbread base to absorb all those delicious aromas as you mix. Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the butter mixture while mixing on low speed. Continue mixing until just combined, ensuring that the flour incorporates gently without overworking the dough for that perfect shortbread texture. Step 5: Fold in the Zest and Cranberries Now, gently fold in the zest of one orange and 1 cup of dried cranberries with a spatula. Take your time as you mix, ensuring the cranberries and zesty flavor are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating those delightful bursts of flavor in each bite of your cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies. Step 6: Chill the Dough Shape the dough into a log approximately 1 inch thick and wrap it in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to slice but also helps the cookies hold their shape while baking, resulting in beautifully uniform shortbread. Step 7: Slice and Arrange After chilling, unwrap the dough and slice it into 1/4-inch rounds using a sharp knife. Arrange the cookies on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for slight spreading. This step sets the stage for those delightful golden edges as they bake. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to ensure they reach that perfect just-golden stage, which promises a melt-in-your-mouth treat. Step 9: Cool and Transfer Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Taking this time ensures that your cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies have the ideal texture and flavor as they finish cooling. Step 10: Dust with Sugar (Optional) For the final touch, once your cookies are completely cool, you can dust them with extra powdered sugar for added sweetness and visual appeal. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely finishing touch to your cozy cranberry orange shortbread that’s perfect for any festive occasion. Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Variations Feel free to get creative and tailor your cookies to your personal taste; the possibilities are endless! Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the holiday spirit. A touch of spice can make each bite even more inviting! Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra texture. The nutty aroma pairs wonderfully with the buttery cookie base. Chocolate Drizzle: Dress your cookies with a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a sweet contrast. This adds a festive touch and harmonizes beautifully with the cranberry-orange flavors. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions. Just make sure to check the blend’s measurements for best results! Zesty Lemon Twist: Swap out some orange zest for lemon zest for a bright, tangy flavor that refreshes your taste buds. This variation adds a zesty kick that holiday guests will love! Dried Fruit Mix: Use a combination of dried fruits, such as raisins, cherries, or apricots, instead of cranberries for a flavorful twist. Each cookie will be a surprise of different flavors! Candied Ginger: Add chopped candied ginger for a spicy, sweet profile that compliments the cranberries beautifully. The chewy ginger pieces are a delicious addition to each bite. Sparkling Sugar Top: Before baking, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a little extra crunch and sparkle. It not only looks festive but also adds a sweet texture to the finished cookies. For extra inspiration, consider pairing these cozy treats with a warm cup of spiced tea or exploring the burst of flavors in a delightful Apple Cranberry Coleslaw for a festive gathering, or savoring with the comfort of a hearty Beef Stroganoff Cozy. Happy baking! Expert Tips for Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread • Room Temperature Butter: Use softened butter for best results. Cold butter won’t cream as nicely, affecting the cookie’s texture. • Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies. Shortbread should be tender! • Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling! It helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and makes slicing easier. • Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. They should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. • Consistent Slices: Aim for uniform slices to ensure even baking. A sharp knife or a dough cutter works best for neat cuts. • Extra Flavor Twist: Consider adding spices or nuts to customize your cozy cranberry orange shortbread and make it truly your own! What to Serve with Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Indulge in a delightful array of pairings that enhance the comforting flavors of your cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies. Spiced Tea: A warm cup of cardamom-spiced tea complements the citrusy notes, bringing an aromatic touch to your cookie experience. It’s an excellent pairing for afternoon tea, creating a cozy moment of relaxation. Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate provides a luscious contrast to the crumbly shortbread. It’s like a warm hug in a cup, perfect for dipping or enjoying alongside these festive delights. Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie or tangy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries, creating a sophisticated combination that elevates your holiday gathering. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring slices of oranges, pears, and pomegranate adds a burst of color and natural sweetness, balancing the buttery richness of the cookies. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert. The creaminess of the ice cream juxtaposes the shortbread texture, creating a delightful treat. Mulled Wine: Warm spiced mulled wine envelops you in the essence of the holidays, perfectly matching the cozy feeling brought by your cookies. This pairing adds an inviting touch to any festive gathering, encouraging relaxation and conversation. How to Store and Freeze Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Room Temperature: Keep your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This will keep them fresh and flavorful while maintaining their delightful texture. Fridge: If you prefer, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for longer freshness, lasting up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without compromising their delicious cranberry-orange flavor. Reheating: To enjoy freshly baked warmth, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This makes them wonderfully soft and inviting again! Make Ahead Options These Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free baking experience during the busy holidays! You can prepare the dough log up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped dough logs for up to two months—just slice and bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This ensures you maintain that delightful buttery texture and vibrant flavors. When you’re ready to indulge, simply slice, bake, and enjoy these delicious cookies that are just as fresh as if made that day! Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe cranberries? Absolutely! Look for plump, firm cranberries that have a glossy finish and a deep red color. Avoid any that are soft, wrinkled, or have dark spots all over, as they may be past their prime. Fresh cranberries are typically available in stores during the fall and winter months, making them a seasonal delight for your cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies. How should I store my baked cookies for freshness? Very! After your cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them fresh and flavorful. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them in a well-sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use? Absolutely! To freeze your shaped dough logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer bag. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply slice the frozen log into rounds and bake, adjusting the baking time by a minute or two. What should I do if my cookies are too crumbly? If your cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies turn out too crumbly, it’s likely due to overmixing or not enough moisture in the dough. For next time, ensure you’re mixing the dry and wet ingredients just until combined. If the dough seems dry, you can add a teaspoon of water or milk—one at a time—mixing gently until you achieve the right consistency. Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies? Absolutely! If you’re making these cookies for someone with allergies, be sure to check the labels of your ingredients for possible allergens. For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with a vegan margarine. The egg-free nature of this recipe already makes it suitable for those avoiding eggs, so feel free to share these cozy cranberry orange shortbread cookies with friends and family without worry! Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread for Heartwarming Holidays Indulge in the holiday spirit with these beginner-friendly Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread cookies, blending sweet cranberries and zesty orange for a delightful treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup Unsalted Butter softened1 cup Powdered Sugar2 cups All-Purpose Flour1/4 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon Vanilla ExtractZest of 1 Orange1 cup Dried Cranberries can substitute with raisins or cherries1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract optionalExtra Powdered Sugar for dusting, optional Equipment mixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paperspatulaKnifeRefrigeratorOven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract until well combined.Whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a separate bowl, then gradually add to the butter mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined.Gently fold in the zest of one orange and 1 cup of dried cranberries with a spatula.Shape the dough into a log approximately 1 inch thick, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and arrange on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about an inch apart.Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.Optional: Once cool, dust cookies with extra powdered sugar before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 40mgPotassium: 20mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, use room temperature butter and avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. Consider adding spices or nuts for a unique twist. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
