Description

These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season. The buttery shortbread cookies are studded with tangy cranberries and zesty orange zest, creating a festive and flavorful combination. With a hint of white chocolate, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

Shortbread Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon orange zest
3/4 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Make Dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Add Mix-Ins: Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and white chocolate chips if using.
Shape and Chill: Divide the dough in half and shape into logs. Chill for at least 2 hours.
Bake: Preheat oven, slice the dough, and bake until edges are golden.
Cool and Serve: Let cookies cool on the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For an extra festive touch, drizzle with melted white chocolate once cooled.
Dough logs can be frozen for later use—slice and bake straight from the freezer with an extra minute or two of baking time.