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Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies combine the rich, buttery texture of classic shortbread with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh orange and the decadent richness of dark chocolate. Perfectly crisp with a smooth chocolate dip and optional garnishing of extra zest or flaky sea salt, they make an elegant treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Shortbread Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons finely grated orange zest
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Chocolate Dip and Garnish

  • 6 ounces dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), melted for dipping
  • Optional: extra orange zest or flaky sea salt for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Set the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
  3. Add Flavorings and Dry Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract and finely grated orange zest. Then gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring until a dough forms.
  4. Roll and Cut Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into your desired shapes.
  5. Chill the Dough: Place the cut dough pieces onto the prepared baking sheets and chill them for 15 minutes to firm up, which helps prevent spreading during baking.
  6. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly baked.
  7. Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to wire racks and cool them fully before decorating.
  8. Dip in Dark Chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate and dip half of each cooled cookie into it, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
  9. Garnish and Set: Optionally sprinkle extra orange zest or flaky sea salt over the chocolate-coated portion for added flavor and texture. Let the chocolate fully set before stacking or serving.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for best dough consistency.
  • Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain cookie shape.
  • Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer taste.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to one week.
  • These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/dark-chocolate-orange-shortbread-cookies-recipe/