Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the buttery richness of shortbread. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter afternoons, these cookies are not only easy to make but also offer a refreshing burst of flavor. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or just indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies will surely impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of cranberry and orange zest creates a unique taste that complements various occasions.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make an excellent gift during the holiday season, beautifully packaged in a festive box or tin.
- Slice and Bake Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time, chill it, and bake fresh cookies whenever you need a sweet treat.
- Festive Appearance: The bright colors of cranberries create a visually appealing cookie that looks great on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Makes mixing the butter, sugar, and zest quick and efficient, ensuring a uniform texture.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
- Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easy.
Ingredients
Cranberry orange shortbread cookies are an easy holiday slice and bake recipe with a burst of cranberry and citrus. Use fresh or dried cranberries!
For the Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- zest of one orange or tangerine (just the orange part, not the bitter white pith)
- 1 heaping cup fresh cranberries
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
How to Make Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Cranberries
Rough chop the cranberries and set them aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter Mixture
Cream the butter, sugar, and zest together until well combined. A food processor works great for this step.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and vanilla extract, pulsing about 10 times. Run the machine briefly until the dough forms lumps.
Step 4: Mix in Cranberries
Add the chopped cranberries, pulsing gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Form Dough Log
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured board. Bring it together with your hands just until it’s no longer crumbly. Form into a log about 10-12 inches long.
Step 6: Chill Dough
Wrap the log in plastic wrap, twisting ends tight to seal. Chill for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 7: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
Step 8: Slice Cookies
Slice the chilled dough into 1/3 inch thick slices. Place them on the cookie sheet two inches apart.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until slightly golden on the bottom. Remember that smaller cookies may cook faster.
Step 10: Cool Down
Let them cool on baking sheets for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They will firm up as they cool down.
Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Shortbread Cookies! They are sure to be a hit during any gathering or simply as an afternoon treat with tea.
How to Serve Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
Cranberry shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether during the holidays or as an everyday snack, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments to elevate your experience.
With Tea or Coffee
- A warm cup of tea or coffee complements the buttery flavor of the cookies perfectly. Consider pairing them with Earl Grey tea or a rich dark roast coffee.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your cranberry shortbread cookies on a festive platter with assorted treats like chocolate truffles and fruit for a beautiful dessert spread at gatherings.
With Whipped Cream
- Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent twist. This adds a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and elegance that is perfect for special occasions.
Paired with Ice Cream
- Serve your cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream. The cold ice cream enhances the flavors of the cookie while adding a refreshing element.
Garnished with Fresh Fruit
- Top each cookie with slices of fresh orange or berries for a vibrant presentation and an extra burst of flavor. This makes for an attractive addition to any dessert table.
How to Perfect Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
Creating perfect cranberry shortbread cookies requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.
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Use room temperature butter – This helps create a smooth mixture and ensures even blending with sugar and other ingredients.
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Chill the dough properly – Allowing the dough to chill for at least three hours helps firm it up, making it easier to slice into uniform shapes.
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Be gentle with cranberries – When mixing in cranberries, pulse just enough to distribute them without crushing them, keeping their texture intact.
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Watch baking time closely – Since ovens vary, keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them when they’re pale on top but golden on the bottom for optimal texture.
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Cool completely before serving – Letting the cookies cool on a rack allows them to firm up, preventing breakage when handling.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
Pairing side dishes with cranberry shortbread cookies can enhance your overall dining experience. Here are some great options that complement these delicious treats well.
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Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses such as brie and cheddar pairs wonderfully, offering both savory and creamy contrasts.
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Fruit Salad – Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and berries can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of shortbread.
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Nut Mix – A variety of nuts adds crunchiness and savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
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Dried Fruit Medley – Dried apricots, figs, or raisins can add chewy textures and natural sweetness alongside your cookies.
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Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a light dish that complements the richness of cranberry shortbread.
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Chocolate Fondue – A small pot of melted chocolate invites guests to dip pieces of cookie into it, creating an interactive dessert experience.
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Spiced Tea Blend – Serve hot spiced tea alongside your cookies for warmth that enhances their flavors during chilly weather.
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Savory Scones – Offering savory scones can provide guests with another option while balancing out the sweet flavor profile of your cranberry shortbread cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when you’re making Cranberry Shortbread Cookies for the first time. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together.
- Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much. Always chill your dough for at least 3 hours.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect texture. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Cutting Uneven Slices: Uneven cookie slices bake inconsistently. Use a sharp knife and measure your slices for uniformity.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Transferring cookies too soon can break them. Let them cool on the baking sheet before moving them to a rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
- Freeze unbaked log dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
- Once baked, store cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cranberry Shortbread Cookies:
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries! Just chop them into smaller pieces if they are large.
How do I make my Cranberry Shortbread Cookies more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or using flavored extracts such as almond extract.
What should I serve with Cranberry Shortbread Cookies?
These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden, while the tops remain pale. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or swap out the orange zest for lemon or lime zest to create different flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Shortbread Cookies offer a delightful mix of tartness from cranberries and sweetness from sugar, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors easily, whether you prefer adding nuts or different citrus zests. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe and enjoy these delicious treats!