Cranberry Chip Shortbread Cookies - Easy Holiday Baking
Classic buttery shortbread cookies studded with tart cranberries and mini chocolate chips. The tender, crumbly texture comes from a simple butter-flour base that requires no eggs or leavening. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, afternoon tea, or gift giving. The combination of sweet chocolate and tangy cranberries creates a festive flavor that appeals to all ages. This slice-and-bake method makes prep easy - form the dough into logs, chill, and slice when ready to bake.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and line half sheet pan with parchment paper
- 2
Cream butter and sugar on high speed until light and fluffy
- 3
Add vanilla extract
- 4
Lower speed to lowest setting and add flour slowly until just combined
- 5
Stir in chocolate chips and cranberries
- 6
Roll mixture into 2-inch wide log and wrap with plastic wrap
- 7
Refrigerate for 30 minutes
- 8
Cut into 1/2 inch thick slices and bake for 20 minutes
- 9
Cool completely before removing from baking sheet
Tips
Chill the dough log for at least 30 minutes to prevent cookies from spreading during baking and ensure clean slices.
Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices and rotate the log quarter turns to prevent flattening one side.
Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze dough logs for up to 3 months.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Dough logs can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated, or frozen for up to 3 months
Serve at room temperature with tea, coffee, or milk
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake - cookies should be set but not browned to maintain tender texture
Avoid overmixing flour to prevent tough cookies
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
FAQ
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, freeze baked cookies in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
What if I don't have mini chocolate chips?
Regular chocolate chips work fine, or chop larger chips into smaller pieces. You can also use chocolate chunks for a more rustic look.
How long do these cookies keep fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They maintain their texture best in the first 3-4 days.