Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Get ready to treat yourself to a little slice of citrusy, buttery heaven! Cranberry Orange Shortbread is that perfect balance of tender, crumbly texture with bright bursts of fresh orange and tangy cranberries that will make your taste buds dance. This isn’t just any shortbread it’s got personality, warmth, and that cozy holiday vibe you didn’t know you needed. Trust me, you’re going to love how easy it is to make and impossible to stop nibbling on.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Orange Shortbread
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, gifting something homemade, or just indulging in a personal treat, this shortbread fits every occasion with ease. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Enjoy it with tea, coffee, or just on its own as a delightful snack.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples plus fresh zest and dried cranberries.
Quick and Easy: Mix, bake, and cool that’s it!
Customizable: Swap cranberries for other dried fruits or add nuts for crunch.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults who love a little tangy sweetness in a buttery cookie.

Ingredients in Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Here’s the magic in this shortbread simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special:

Butter: The star player that makes the shortbread tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
Sugar: Just enough to sweeten without overpowering.
All-Purpose Flour: The base that gives structure and crumb.
Fresh Orange Zest: Adds bright, fresh citrus notes that wake up your senses.
Dried Cranberries: Chewy bursts of tartness to balance the sweetness.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps everything balanced.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create these dreamy shortbread bars:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the orange zest and salt. Gradually add flour and mix until the dough comes together. Fold in dried cranberries gently, so they’re evenly distributed.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with your fingers or a spatula.

Assemble the Dish: If you want, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top for a delicate crunch before baking.

Cook to Perfection: Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the edges are just golden. Keep an eye on it — you want that perfect light golden color.

Finishing Touches: Let the shortbread cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the texture to set just right.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve with a warm cup of tea or coffee and enjoy the lovely combination of buttery, tangy, and sweet flavors.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approx. 200
(Note: may vary depending on ingredient brands)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Shortbread

This shortbread is delightfully versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it best:

• Serve alongside a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for a relaxing afternoon break
• Pack a few squares in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert twist
• Gift in decorative tins or boxes for holiday cheer

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use fresh, unwaxed oranges for the best zest flavor
• Don’t overmix the dough gentle folding keeps the shortbread tender
• For extra texture, toss cranberries with a little flour before adding to prevent sinking
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week
• Try adding chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for a nutty crunch

FAQ’s

1. Can I use dried cherries instead of cranberries?
   Yes! Dried cherries or even raisins make a tasty substitute.
2. Is it okay to use orange extract instead of zest?
   You can, but fresh zest gives a brighter, fresher flavor.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
4. How should I store the shortbread?
   Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
5. Can I freeze the shortbread?
   Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
6. Will the cranberries sink to the bottom while baking?
   Tossing them lightly in flour before mixing helps keep them evenly distributed.
7. Can I add nuts?
   Yes, chopped nuts like almonds or pecans make a great addition.
8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking.
9. Is it possible to make smaller cookies instead of bars?
   Definitely! Just scoop dough onto a baking sheet and bake for a shorter time.
10. How do I know when the shortbread is done?
    Look for light golden edges and a firm top that springs back slightly when touched.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Shortbread is a little bite of sunshine wrapped in buttery, crumbly goodness. It’s a simple, elegant treat that feels both festive and comforting, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed shortbread any other way. So grab your zest, dust off your baking pan, and get ready to fall in love with this delightful twist on a classic!

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