Orange Cranberry Shortbread Rounds - 10 Minute Bake
Buttery shortbread cookies studded with sweet dried cranberries and bright orange zest create an irresistible combination of citrus and fruit flavors. The tender, crumbly texture comes from creaming butter with powdered sugar, while almond extract adds subtle depth alongside vanilla. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, afternoon tea, or gift giving, these slice-and-bake rounds offer convenience without sacrificing homemade taste. The dough logs can be prepared ahead and chilled until ready to bake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flourgluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free
may affect texture slightly
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest, grated
- 2 cups sweetened dried cranberries, choppeddried cherries1:1flavor-change
similar sweetness and texture
Instructions
- 1
Cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth using stand mixer with paddle attachment
- 2
Add extracts and orange zest, mix for 30 seconds
- 3
Add flour, baking powder, and salt until just incorporated
- 4
Fold in cranberries, mixing just enough to evenly combine
- 5
Divide dough into 2 equal portions, roll into logs about 7 inches long
- 6
Wrap each log in wax paper or plastic wrap, chill for at least 4 hours
- 7
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
- 8
Remove wrapping, cut dough into 1/2-inch slices
- 9
Arrange slices on baking sheet about 1 inch apart
- 10
Bake until firm but not browned, about 10 minutes
Tips
Chill dough logs overnight for easier slicing and cleaner edges when cutting into rounds.
Don't overbake - cookies should be firm but not browned for the perfect tender shortbread texture.
Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, wiping blade between cuts if dough sticks.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Dough logs can be wrapped and refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen up to 3 months before slicing and baking
Serve at room temperature with coffee, tea, or milk
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix after adding flour to avoid tough cookies
Chill dough adequately to prevent spreading during baking
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
may affect texture slightly
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, store baked cookies in freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What if I don't have almond extract?
You can omit almond extract or substitute with additional vanilla extract, though flavor will be slightly different.
How long do the dough logs need to chill?
Minimum 4 hours, but overnight chilling makes slicing much easier and produces neater cookie rounds.