Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Orange Shortbread Cookies combine the rich, buttery texture of classic shortbread with a bright, citrusy twist. Perfect for afternoon tea or a sweet snack, they are easy to make and delightfully flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Step 5: Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
6. Step 6: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will remain soft but will firm up as they cool.
7. Step 7: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a stronger orange flavor, add a teaspoon of fresh orange juice along with the zest.
• Try adding finely chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture.
• Use blood orange zest for a unique color and slightly different citrus note.
• Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for best texture in the cookies.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also freeze well—place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature. Reheating is generally unnecessary, but warming briefly in an oven can refresh their texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute orange zest with lemon zest?

Yes, lemon zest can be used as a substitute and will give the cookies a different citrus flavor that is equally delicious.

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Make sure the dough is chilled before baking, and avoid using butter that is too soft or melted. Also, flatten the dough balls gently to your preferred thickness so they bake evenly without excessive spreading.

Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 70 reviews

These Orange Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and infused with vibrant orange zest for a refreshing citrus twist. Perfectly sweetened with powdered and granulated sugars and enhanced with vanilla extract, these cookies offer a delicate crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ideal for tea time, holiday treats, or anytime you want a simple yet elegant cookie.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 27-30 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert, Snack, Cookie
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional

• Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Flavorings: Mix in the freshly grated orange zest and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the aromatic flavors evenly throughout the dough.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing gently until a cohesive dough forms without overworking it.
5. Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them spaced out on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or your palm to gently flatten each dough ball slightly to promote even baking.
6. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the edges start turning a light golden color, while the centers remain soft.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a sweet finish.

Notes

• Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
• Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
• Orange zest can be adjusted based on your preference for citrus intensity.
• Cookies will be soft when fresh, but they firm up as they cool; handle gently to avoid breaking.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Keywords: Orange Shortbread Cookies, Citrus Cookies, Butter Cookies, Homemade Cookies, Shortbread Recipe