Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies – A Buttery, Festive Treat Bursting with Bright Citrus Flavor

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines melt-in-your-mouth texture, festive colors, and a burst of citrus sweetness, these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are exactly what you need. Rich, buttery, perfectly crumbly, and dotted with tangy cranberries and aromatic orange zest—this is the kind of holiday cookie everyone looks forward to.

Whether you’re planning a Christmas cookie box, a cozy winter dessert spread, or simply craving a bright and flavorful treat, these cookies deliver elegance and comfort in every bite.

What Makes Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Special?

Shortbread cookies are beloved for their simplicity and irresistible buttery texture. But adding dried cranberries and fresh orange zest elevates them into something truly exquisite. The sweetness of orange, the slight chewiness of cranberries, and the richness of the shortbread base create a well-balanced, unforgettable treat.

Perfect for:

• Holiday gifting

• Afternoon tea

• Christmas dessert tables

• Bake-ahead treats (they freeze beautifully!)

• Edible presents for friends and family

Now let’s dive into the complete recipe and everything you need to create the BEST Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Below is the full, detailed ingredient list to ensure perfect flavor and texture every time.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Flavor Add-Ins

• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 large orange)

• ¾ cup dried cranberries, chopped

• Optional: 2 tablespoons candied orange peel, finely chopped (adds sweetness and aroma)

Optional Coating (for extra crunch)

• ¼ cup coarse sugar or granulated sugar (to roll cookie dough log before slicing)

Tip: Always use fresh orange zest—its natural oils are what make these cookies fragrant and vibrant.

Required Kitchen Tools

You don’t need any fancy equipment to make these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies. Here’s what to prepare:

• Mixing bowls

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer

• Silicone spatula

• Sharp knife (for slicing cookies)

• Plastic wrap or parchment paper

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

• Microplane or fine grater (for orange zest)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to achieve perfectly buttery, tender, and flavorful cookies every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture

1. In a bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar using a hand mixer.

2. Beat for about 2–3 minutes, until smooth, creamy, and pale.

This step creates the signature melt-in-your-mouth shortbread texture.

Step 2: Add the Citrus Flavor

1. Mix in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.

2. Continue mixing until fully combined.

You should immediately smell the bright, fresh aroma of citrus. This is what gives the cookies their signature holiday flavor.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. Add the flour and salt into the butter mixture.

2. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together.

The dough should be soft and slightly crumbly, but it should hold together when pressed with your fingers.

Step 4: Add the Cranberries

1. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries (and candied peel if using) using a spatula.

2. Mix until the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

The pops of red from the cranberries give the dough a festive, vibrant look.

Step 5: Shape the Cookie Dough

1. Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap.

2. Roll it into a log shape, about 2 inches thick.

3. If you want a crispy sugar edge, roll the log in coarse sugar before wrapping.

This is the classic “slice & bake” shortbread technique—perfect for make-ahead baking.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours, or freeze for 30–40 minutes.

Chilling prevents spreading and ensures perfectly round, even cookies.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Remove the chilled dough and slice into ½-inch thick rounds.

3. Place the slices on a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each.

4. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.

5. Cool completely on a wire rack.

The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake them.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

1. Use High-Quality Butter

Shortbread depends heavily on butter flavor. European-style butter gives the best richness.

2. Don’t Overmix

Once the flour is added, mix only until combined. Overmixing causes tough cookies.

3. Always Chill the Dough

This is crucial for:

• Maintaining shape

• Even slicing

• Preventing spreading

4. Use a Sharp Knife

A clean slice helps keep the cookies perfectly round.

5. Enhance the Flavor

You can add:

• A pinch of cinnamon for warmth

• A few drops of orange extract for extra citrus strength

• White chocolate chips for a sweeter twist

6. Freeze the Dough

This recipe is freezer-friendly:

• Freeze the dough log for up to 3 months.

• Slice and bake directly from the freezer—just add 1 extra minute to the bake time.

7. Make Them Gluten-Free

Use high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour. The texture stays almost identical.

Approximate Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Values may vary depending on cookie thickness and specific brands used.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

The combination of bright citrus and sweet-tart cranberries perfectly captures the essence of winter baking. These cookies not only taste incredible but also look stunning, making them ideal for gifting or serving at festive gatherings.

Their long shelf life means you can bake them ahead of time and store them for up to a week—still fresh, crumbly, and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies with:

• Hot chocolate

• Warm herbal tea

• Orange-glazed holiday drinks

• A Christmas dessert platter

• Vanilla ice cream

They also pair beautifully with coffee thanks to their buttery texture.

How to Package Them for Gifting

These cookies look gorgeous in:

• Clear gift bags

• Mason jars

• Holiday cookie tins

• Kraft paper boxes with ribbon

• Personalized Christmas tags

Add a small slice of dried orange or a cinnamon stick inside the package for decoration and aroma.

Storage & Make-Ahead Guide

Room Temperature:

Store cookies in an airtight container for 7–10 days.

Refrigerator:

Stays fresh up to 2 weeks.

Freezing (Dough or Baked Cookies):

Up to 3 months.

This makes them perfect for big batches during holiday planning.

Conclusion: Make These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies Today!

These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are more than just a holiday treat—they’re a buttery, citrusy, festive experience in every bite. Whether you’re baking for your family, preparing cookie boxes for friends, or looking to add something special to your Christmas dessert table, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.