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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://hannahdelgado.com/orange-shortbread-cookies-recipe/