Go Back

Cozy Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies packed with tart dried cranberries and bright orange zest — the perfect cozy holiday treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 36 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 160
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp orange zest from 2 large oranges
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2.25 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.75 cup dried cranberries roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh orange juice optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. Cream butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Mix in orange zest and vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually add flour and salt until dough forms.
  4. Fold in chopped dried cranberries (add orange juice if needed).
  5. Shape into two logs, wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
  6. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Slice logs into ¼-inch rounds.
  7. Bake 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
  8. Cool on sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

Notes

For best texture, do not overmix the dough. Cookies can be frozen after baking or as dough logs.