Description
Delight in these rich and buttery Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies, perfectly balanced with zesty citrus and decadent dark chocolate. Ideal for holiday treats or anytime you crave a crisp, flavorful cookie with a smooth chocolate dip.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Chocolate Coating
- 4 oz dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and creamy. This creates a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with citrus and vanilla aroma.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, shaping each portion into logs or discs. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, which helps with slicing and enhances texture.
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Slice or Cut Shapes: Remove chilled dough from the refrigerator. Slice into ¼-inch thick rounds or roll out and cut into desired shapes for a decorative touch.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the dough pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden color, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool the Cookies: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before decorating.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and glossy.
- Dip and Set Cookies: Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate, then place them on parchment paper. Chill if needed to expedite the chocolate setting process.
Notes
- Use blood orange zest instead of regular orange zest for a richer, more pronounced citrus flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to one week.
