Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the tartness of cranberries with the buttery richness of shortbread. These cookies are not just for the holiday season; they make a charming addition to any gathering or celebration. Their simple preparation and vibrant flavor ensure they will be a hit at your next event.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With straightforward instructions, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Burst of Flavor – The combination of orange zest and cranberries adds a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile – Enjoy them as a festive dessert, a sweet snack, or even as gifts for friends and family.
• Perfectly Buttery – These cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them simply irresistible.
• Make Ahead – The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them ideal for busy bakers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor – This tool helps mix ingredients quickly, ensuring a smooth cookie dough without much effort.
• Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients comfortably.
• Plastic wrap – Useful for chilling the dough and keeping it fresh while it firms up in the fridge.

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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 the Cranberries

Rough chop the cranberries and set them aside.

Step 2: Creaming Mixture

Cream together the butter, sugar, and zest until well combined. You can do this using a food processor for efficiency.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Pulse about 10 times in the processor, then run it briefly until the dough starts coming together.

Step 4: Add Cranberries

Gently add the chopped cranberries to your dough mixture. Pulse just until they are evenly distributed without over-processing.

Step 5: Forming the Dough Log

Turn out your dough onto a lightly floured board. Use your hands to bring it together until it is no longer crumbly. Shape it into a log approximately 10-12 inches long.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Wrap your log tightly in plastic wrap. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least three hours or overnight. To maintain its round shape, wrap it in a folded towel while chilling.

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 your chilled dough into 1/3 inch thick slices. Place them on your prepared cookie sheet with about two inches apart between each one.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for about 10-12 minutes. If you prefer crisper cookies, leave them in slightly longer until they are pale on top and just turning golden on the bottom.

Step 10: Cooling Process

Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Be cautious as they will be soft when hot but will firm up as they cool down.

Enjoy these delicious Cranberry Shortbread Cookies at any occasion!

How to Serve Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies bring a festive touch to any occasion.

With Tea or Coffee

• Pairing these cookies with your favorite tea or coffee enhances their flavor and creates a cozy atmosphere.

As Holiday Gifts

• Package the cookies in decorative tins or boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the festive season.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other treats for an eye-catching display at parties.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cranberry shortbread cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combination.

How to Perfect Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

To achieve the best results with your cranberry shortbread cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cranberries are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain its shape during baking and enhances texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; thinner slices may require less baking time for perfect crispness.
• Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry shortbread cookies can be complemented by various side dishes, making your dessert spread even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cream Cheese Spread – A tangy cream cheese spread pairs nicely with the buttery cookie texture.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast.
4. Coffee Cake – A slice of coffee cake offers additional flavors that complement cranberry well.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a wholesome side that enhances your dessert experience.
6. Hot Chocolate – This warm drink adds richness and warmth to your cookie indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Boldly skip the chilling: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill your dough for at least 3 hours to maintain shape.
• Boldly ignore the cranberry preparation: Forgetting to chop the cranberries can result in uneven distribution in your cookies. Rough chop them for better texture and flavor.
• Boldly use warm butter: Using melted or too-soft butter will affect the cookie’s structure. Make sure your butter is at room temperature but still firm.
• Boldly rush the baking time: Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove when they’re lightly golden on the bottom.
• Boldly overlook measuring flour: Incorrect flour measurement can change the cookie’s texture. Level off your measuring cup for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months without losing quality.

Reheating Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat a single cookie on high for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm cookies in a non-stick pan over low heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cranberry Shortbread Cookies?

Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are delightful treats made with butter, sugar, and fresh or dried cranberries, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness.

How do I make my Cranberry Shortbread Cookies more festive?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or include chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Dried cranberries work well in this recipe and provide a concentrated sweetness. Just adjust the quantity based on your preference.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Shortbread Cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to customize with your favorite flavors or additions. Whether you enjoy them during the holidays or anytime you crave a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to delight. Give this recipe a try and explore different variations!