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Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Delightful shortbread cookies infused with the tartness of cranberries and the bright flavor of fresh oranges, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 110
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup dried sweetened cranberries, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest

Method
 

Mixing and Preparing the Dough
  1. In a stand mixing bowl, combine butter and confectioners sugar. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add vanilla extract and salt to the mixture. Beat for one more minute until well combined.
  3. Slowly add all-purpose flour in batches and mix on low speed until just combined.
  4. Fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest using a spatula.
  5. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log about 7 inches long and 2 inches wide. Wrap each log in cling wrap.
  6. Refrigerate the logs for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor.
Baking the Cookies
  1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Remove the cling wrap and slice each log into 1/3 inch thick pieces.
  3. Place slices on the prepared baking sheet, allowing space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn light golden.
  4. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

These cookies can be enjoyed plain, with hot beverages, or as part of a dessert spread. For elegance, add a sprinkle of orange zest or a dusting of confectioners sugar before serving.