Cranberry Bliss Orangeinfused Shortbread
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Cranberry Bliss!
Ever had one of those days where you just need something comforting? That's when I crave cranberry orange shortbread . Seriously, this easy shortbread recipe is like a warm hug in cookie form.
This isn't your average biscuit. It’s festive shortbread with a fancy twist. The buttery crumble is incredible. Then you get a burst of tart cranberries and zesty orange.
I sometimes think of this recipe as a love letter to the holidays, but honestly, I bake these all year round.
A Wee Bit of Background
Buttery shortbread cookies are originally from Scotland. Traditionally, they are made with butter, flour, and sugar. It's been a favourite treat for centuries.
This cranberry shortbread recipe takes a fun, modern spin on that classic. This recipe is straightforward. Most of the time spent is chilling the dough.
You should end up with about 24 cookies, perfect for sharing... or not!
Why You'll LOVE This Shortbread
Honestly, these orange shortbread cookies are pure joy! The burst of vitamin C from the orange is a bonus. They're perfect with a cuppa tea on a chilly afternoon.
It's what I reach for at the end of a long day. What makes them special? That perfect balance of sweet, tart, and buttery.
Plus, that amazing orange aroma filling your kitchen! Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!
Time to round up those ingredients. So let's get to it, shall we?
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Ready to make some amazing cranberry orange shortbread ? This recipe is all about simple flavours done right. Honestly, even if you're not a baking pro, you can nail this! You know?, I had to change some stuff to make this one perfect.
Main Ingredients for the Best Shortbread with Dried Cranberries
We're going for that melt-in-your mouth texture, so quality is key. Here’s what you need:
- Butter: 1 cup ( 2 sticks/227g ) unsalted, softened but still cool! This is where the buttery shortbread cookies magic happens.
- Sugar: ½ cup ( 100g ) granulated.
- Vanilla: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Orange Zest: Zest of 1 large orange. This really elevates the citrus shortbread!
- Flour: 2 ¼ cups ( 281g ) all-purpose, plus extra for dusting.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon.
- Dried Cranberries: ¾ cup ( 75g ), roughly chopped. Hello festive shortbread!
- Orange Juice: 2 tablespoons to plump up those cranberries.
Quality butter is important here. Look for a brand that you trust. The orange should be nice and fragrant.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Power Ups
Let's talk flavour!
- Orange and Cranberry: This combo is the star. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the butter.
- Vanilla Extract: A classic enhancer that adds a touch of warmth.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness.
Want a twist? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Honestly, it's your Christmas shortbread , so get creative! Lemon or lime zest are amazing shortbread variations, too.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gadgets for this easy shortbread recipe . Here's what's essential:
- Mixer: Electric mixer (stand or hand held).
- Bowls: Mixing bowls.
- Plastic Wrap: For chilling.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough.
- Cookie Cutters: Optional, but fun!.
- Baking Sheet: For baking.
- Parchment Paper: Recommended.
No rolling pin? A clean wine bottle works in a pinch! Don't stress if you don't have cookie cutters. A knife works just fine.
I like that the cookies are all in the same size. Remember these are essential tools to make these beautiful orange shortbread cookies .
Cranberry Bliss: My Orange Infused Shortbread Adventure
Honestly, who doesn't love a good shortbread? I've been baking these buttery shortbread cookies since I was knee high to a grasshopper! But this Cranberry shortbread recipe , oh my gosh, it's a game changer.
This isn't just any old easy shortbread recipe . It's festive shortbread with a zing. Imagine the classic buttery goodness paired with the tartness of cranberries and the bright aroma of orange.
It's like a little party in your mouth. These orange shortbread cookies are amazing.
Prep Steps: The Secret to Success
First things first, let's get our act together. It's all about the mise en place , darling. Soften your butter but don't let it melt completely, you know? Think cool but pliable.
Chop those dried cranberries. Soak them in 2 tablespoons orange juice to plump them up for 10 minutes. It makes all the difference.
A little planning saves a lot of stress later.
From Dough to Deliciousness: The step-by-step
- Cream together 1 cup (2 sticks/227g) softened butter and ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar until it's light and fluffy.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and the zest of 1 large orange .
- Whisk together 2 ¼ cups (281g) all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low speed. Don't overmix!
- Gently knead the cranberry mixture into the dough.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour .
- Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) .
- Roll out the dough, cut out shapes, and bake for 15- 18 minutes , until golden.
Pro Tips for Perfect Shortbread
Here's a little secret. Don't overmix the dough. Overmixing equals tough cookies. You want crumbly, not chewy. The chilling time is super important.
Don't skip it. It stops the cookies from spreading too much. Christmas shortbread perfection requires patience. Also, for a shortbread with dried cranberries that’s even better, try adding a touch of orange extract to the dough for an extra kick of citrus shortbread flavor.
Trust me on this one. This makes the best holiday baking recipes ever.
So, there you have it, my friend. My take on a cranberry orange shortbread . Give it a go, and let me know how it turns out. Happy baking!
Recipe Notes for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Shortbread
Alright, so you’re ready to bake some seriously good cranberry orange shortbread ? Awesome! Before you dive in, here are a few extra notes.
They'll help you bake the best buttery shortbread cookies you've ever tasted. Trust me, I learned some of these the hard way.
We're talking about achieving the perfect balance between that tart cranberry kick and the bright citrus notes!
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Presentation
These orange shortbread cookies are gorgeous as is, but let’s make them extra special. Think about serving them on a pretty platter.
A little dusting of icing sugar adds a touch of elegance. For drinks, I love pairing them with a steaming mug of Earl Grey or a fizzy cranberry spritzer.
Honestly, they’re perfect with any festive drink.
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
You've got extra Christmas shortbread ? No worries! Store these festive shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
They should keep for about a week. Fancy keeping them longer? You can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Just wrap them really well. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature. A gentle warming in the oven will perk them up!
Variations: Make it Your Own
Want to mix things up? Try substituting the orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a citrus shortbread twist.
Oh my gosh! You can also throw in some white chocolate chips along with the dried cranberries for a super indulgent treat.
For a gluten-free shortbread variation , use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Honestly, the possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Basics: A Treat with Benefits?
Okay, let's be real. These cranberry orange shortbread aren’t exactly health food. But they do contain cranberries, which are packed with antioxidants! Think of it as a little boost while you enjoy these easy shortbread recipe .
Each cookie has roughly 120 calories, but hey, it's all about balance, right?
So there you have it everything you need to know to make the perfect batch of cranberry orange shortbread .
Don’t be afraid to experiment. This cranberry shortbread recipe is very forgiving. Remember, baking should be fun! Now go on, get baking and enjoy every delicious bite.
And don't forget the joy of sharing your homemade goodies with loved ones this holiday season! These holiday baking recipes are sure to be a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my cranberry orange shortbread dry and crumbly? Is that normal?
Don't panic! Shortbread is meant to be crumbly. It's the nature of the beast! However, if it's too dry, you might have overmixed the dough, or added too much flour. Next time, make sure to mix until just combined, and measure your flour accurately.
Adding a touch of extra butter (a tablespoon or two) can also help add moisture.
Can I make cranberry orange shortbread ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading. You can prepare the dough and chill it in the fridge for up to 2 days, or even freeze it for longer storage. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge until it's pliable enough to roll out.
How do I get the best orange flavour in my cranberry orange shortbread?
The secret's in the zest! Make sure you're using fresh orange zest, and don't be shy with it. You can also try adding a teaspoon of orange extract for an extra boost of flavour. Another pro tip is to rub the zest into the sugar before creaming it with the butter - this releases the oils and intensifies the orange aroma, so it's bursting with sunshine.
My cranberry orange shortbread spread out too much while baking. What did I do wrong?
Spreading is a common shortbread woe, but easily fixed! Most likely, your butter was too soft, or the dough wasn't chilled enough. Make sure your butter is softened but still cool, and chill the dough for at least an hour (or even longer) before rolling it out.
Also, avoid greasing the baking sheet - parchment paper or a Silpat mat are your best friends here.
Can I substitute anything for the cranberries in this cranberry orange shortbread recipe?
Definitely! While cranberries provide a lovely tartness, you can experiment with other dried fruits. Chopped dried cherries, apricots, or even raisins would all work well. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size as the cranberries, and consider soaking them in orange juice beforehand to plump them up, just like the original recipe calls for!
How should I store my cranberry orange shortbread to keep it fresh?
To keep your cranberry orange shortbread delightfully crisp, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll generally stay fresh for about a week, assuming they aren't devoured first (which is often the case!).
You can also freeze baked shortbread for longer storage; just make sure they're completely cooled before freezing, and thaw them at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy.
Cranberry Bliss Orangeinfused Shortbread
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | <1g |