Why You’ll Love Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe
These cookies are loved for their simple ingredients and irresistible flavors. The sweet-tart cranberries and zingy orange zest elevate classic shortbread into something both festive and elegant. The cookie dough can be prepared in advance and chilled, making this recipe ideal for holiday baking or last-minute treats. The texture is tender and buttery with a delicate crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup dried cranberries
¾ cups sugar, divided
2½ cups all-purpose flour – spooned and leveled
1 cup cold butter, cubed
1 teaspoon almond extract
Zest of 1 orange
1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (optional)
Additional sugar to coat cookies before baking (optional)
Directions
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
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In a food processor, combine dried cranberries with ¼ cup of sugar and pulse just until the cranberries are broken down into smaller pieces. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, combine the remaining sugar and all-purpose flour.
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Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until you have fine crumbs.
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Stir in the almond extract, cranberry-sugar mixture, orange zest, and orange juice (if using).
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Use your hands to knead the dough until it comes together into a ball. If crumbly, add orange juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds.
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Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 2 hours or up to 72 hours.
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
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Slice the chilled dough into ¼‑inch thick rounds.
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If desired, place about ½ cup sugar in a bowl and coat each slice in sugar before baking.
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Arrange cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until just set. Avoid over-baking.
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Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Servings and timing
Servings: About 30 cookies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: At least 2 hours (can be up to 72 hours)
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: Around 2 hours 22 minutes (including chill time)
Variations
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Substitute vanilla extract if you prefer a more subtle flavor than almond.
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Swap lemon zest for orange zest for a slightly different bright note.
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Add chopped white chocolate chips to enhance sweetness.
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Use orange extract instead of orange juice for a stronger citrus aroma.
Storage/Reheating
Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thawed cookies can be refreshed in a low oven (about 300°F / 150°C) for 5–7 minutes if desired. The dough log can also be wrapped and frozen before baking for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
FAQs
What makes these cookies different from traditional shortbread?
These cookies build on classic shortbread by adding dried cranberries and citrus zest, giving them festive flavor and texture beyond the usual buttery simplicity.
Can I bake these without chilling the dough?
Chilling is recommended to help the dough firm up and maintain its shape during baking. Skipping this step may lead to flatter cookies.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Fresh cranberries can be used but should be finely chopped and perhaps lightly cooked or tossed in sugar first, as they contain more moisture than dried ones.
How do I get a sparkly sugar coating?
Before baking, coat each cookie slice in granulated sugar for a sparkly finish that also adds a slight crunch.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes — swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend with xanthan gum for similar results.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, freeze them.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes — wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
Why is my dough crumbly?
If the dough is too dry, add a little orange juice (1 tablespoon at a time) until it comes together.
Can I use another extract instead of almond?
Vanilla extract works well if almond extract isn’t available.
Can I make them ahead for holiday gifting?
Absolutely — these cookies and their dough freeze well and make great homemade gifts.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are a wonderfully flavorful twist on traditional cookies — festive, buttery, and perfect for holiday baking or any special occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite in your recipe collection. Their bright citrus zest and tart cranberries offer a delightful contrast that keeps people coming back for another bite.
