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Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies: A Sweet Holiday Delight

Delicious Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies that combine tartness and zest, making them a perfect holiday treat.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Do not substitute with fresh; if using fresh, chop finely and blot excess moisture.
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Can be substituted with a granulated sugar alternative.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 cup Cold Butter Must be cold to ensure the right texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Almond Extract Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute if necessary.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Lemon zest can be used for a different flavor profile.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Orange Juice Adjust quantity based on dough consistency.
For Garnishing
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Optional for a decorative touch.

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry cutter
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. In a food processor, pulse the dried cranberries with 1/4 cup of sugar until coarsely chopped.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and remaining sugar.
  4. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add them to the flour-sugar mixture.
  5. Gently fold in the almond extract, chopped cranberries, orange zest, and a splash of fresh orange juice.
  6. Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
  7. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  8. Once the dough is chilled, unwrap it and slice into 1/4-inch rounds.
  9. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes.
  10. If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 7gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Chill the dough for at least 2 hours to prevent excessive spreading during baking. Ensure butter is cold for the best texture.

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