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Citrus Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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4.3 from 7 reviews

These Citrus Shortbread Cookies combine a buttery, tender texture with vibrant orange zest and sweet dried cranberries, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Originating from a beloved Louisiana family recipe, these cookies are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange zest, or more to taste

Add-ins

  • 2 cups sweetened dried cranberries, chopped

Instructions

  1. Gather Ingredients: Collect all necessary ingredients to ensure everything is prepared before starting the baking process.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Add Flavors and Zest: Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and grated orange zest to the creamed butter and sugar, blending them thoroughly for a fragrant base.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually mix the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
  6. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold the chopped dried cranberries into the dough, ensuring an even distribution without breaking them down.
  7. Shape and Chill Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a log approximately 7 inches long. Wrap each log tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to firm up.
  8. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking.
  9. Slice Dough: Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Cut each log into ½-inch thick slices, creating individual cookies.
  10. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cookie slices on a baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking.
  11. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the cookies are firm to the touch but not browned, preserving their delicate texture.
  12. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool slightly before enjoying their sweet, citrus-infused flavor.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh orange zest and high-quality extracts.
  • Chilling the dough is essential to firm up the butter and maintain the cookie shape during baking.
  • Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake to avoid browning, which can alter the delicate flavor.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
  • For a festive twist, consider adding chopped nuts or substituting cranberries with other dried fruits.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/citrus-cranberry-shortbread-cookies-recipe/