Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine into a extraordinary culinary adventure! These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies with Walnuts are not just another cookie recipe - they're a symphony of festive flavors that will instantly elevate your holiday baking game. Imagine biting into a buttery, crumbly shortbread studded with tangy cranberries, bright orange zest, and crunchy walnuts that will make your guests wonder if you've secretly trained in a professional pastry kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup orange zest
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, orange zest, and chopped walnuts using a spatula, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
- Roll the dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness and use a cookie cutter or knife to cut into desired shapes.
- Place the cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Chill the cookie sheets in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Keep your butter at the perfect temperature - softened but not melted. This ensures a light, tender texture.
- Don't overmix the dough after adding flour to prevent tough cookies.
- Chilling the dough before baking is crucial - it helps cookies maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
- Use a sharp, clean cookie cutter for precise edges.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- For extra elegance, you can dust these cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light orange glaze.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain their delicate texture and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
