Description
Delight in these crisp and buttery Chocolate Dipped Orange Shortbread Cookies that combine zesty orange flavor with rich dark chocolate. Perfectly tender and subtly sweet, these cookies are ideal for tea time or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (from 1 orange)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- Optional: orange sprinkles or zest for garnish
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add in the orange zest and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms without overworking.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a 2-inch diameter log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and develop flavor.
- Preheat and Slice: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely to ensure they hold their shape and texture.
- Dip in Chocolate: Once the cookies are fully cooled, dip half of each cookie into the melted dark or semi-sweet chocolate. Place the dipped cookies onto parchment paper and garnish with orange sprinkles or additional zest if desired.
- Set and Store: Allow the chocolate to fully set at room temperature before serving or placing the cookies in an airtight container for storage to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and smoother dough.
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and to maintain the cookie shape during baking.
- Use good quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for dipping to achieve a glossy finish and rich flavor.
- Optional garnishes like orange sprinkles add a festive touch but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
