Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, about 225 grams, room temperature)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (or use additional flour)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (packed, finely chopped)
Instructions
- Beat Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together for 5 to 6 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Then, add the vanilla extract and blend it evenly into the mixture.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Flavorings: Slowly mix in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Once combined, gently fold in the orange zest and finely chopped fresh cranberries, making sure they are distributed evenly throughout the dough.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step helps the dough firm up for easier slicing and enhances the flavor.
- Slice Cookies: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into cookies approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 centimeters) thick. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, leaving some space between each.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cookies until the bottoms just start to turn golden, which should take about 12 minutes.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet to let them set and avoid breaking.
- Enjoy and Rate: Once cooled, enjoy these delicious cranberry shortbread cookies. If you loved the recipe, please consider leaving a 5-star rating. Thank you!
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature to achieve the best whipped texture with the sugar.
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- If fresh cranberries are not available, you can substitute with dried cranberries, but reduce the sugar slightly as dried fruits are sweeter.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and reduce cleanup.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
