Description
Delightfully crisp and buttery Cranberry Shortbread Cookies featuring sweet dried cranberries and a hint of vanilla, perfect for festive occasions or everyday snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and optional orange zest thoroughly to infuse the dough with aromatic flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt while mixing gently just until fully combined, taking care not to overmix to avoid tough cookies.
- Fold in Cranberries: Fold in the chopped dried cranberries evenly throughout the dough, distributing bursts of tart sweetness.
- Shape and Chill Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in parchment or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up for easy slicing.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid cleanup.
- Slice and Arrange Cookies: Remove chilled dough from refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden brown, indicating they are perfectly crisp yet tender inside.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For a citrusy twist, include the optional orange zest to elevate the flavor profile.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
- Chilling the dough is critical to achieve clean slices and maintain cookie shape during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies freeze well; wrap cooled cookies tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
