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Cranberry orange shortbread cookies on a plate, festive treat for any occasion.

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Delicious cookies that combine a rich buttery texture with the bright flavor of orange and tart sweetness of cranberries, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Holiday
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 90 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest from 1 large orange zest from 1 large orange For enhanced flavor, you can add more zest
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped Chop cranberries for better distribution
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) Adds a warm spice flavor

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add in the vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
  • Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until a dough forms. If using, add ground cinnamon.
  • Fold in the chopped dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap it in wax paper, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  • Remove the dough from the refrigerator, slice it into 1/4-inch rounds, and place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper in between layers. They last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Keyword Cookies, Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies, Dessert, Holiday Baking, shortbread