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Orange and Chocolate Shortbread

Orange and Chocolate Shortbread

Imagine biting into a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread that perfectly balances the rich depth of chocolate with the bright, zesty punch of orange. These aren't just any cookies - they're a gourmet experience that transforms the classic British shortbread into a decadent treat that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry chef, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game and impress even the most discerning cookie connoisseurs.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 24 cookies

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  3. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  4. 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  5. 1 tablespoon orange zest
  6. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  7. 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and fresh orange zest to the butter mixture, mixing until evenly distributed.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt to remove any lumps and ensure even mixing.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
  7. Roll the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness and use cookie cutters to create desired shapes, or slice into rectangular shortbread pieces.
  8. Transfer the cut cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  9. Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape.
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the cookies are chilling.
  11. Bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
  12. 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.
  13. Optional: Once cooled, you can drizzle with melted dark chocolate or dust with additional powdered sugar for extra decoration.

Tips

  1. Temperature is Key: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest, most consistent dough.
  2. Don't Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep your shortbread tender and crumbly.
  3. Chill for Perfection: The 15-minute refrigeration before baking helps cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading.
  4. Get Creative with Decoration: Try drizzling with melted dark chocolate or dusting with powdered sugar for an extra elegant touch.
  5. Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their delicate texture.
  6. Zest Matters: Use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor - avoid the bitter white pith underneath the orange skin.
  7. Precision Baking: Watch your cookies closely in the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 78kcal

Carbohydrates: 11g

Protein: g

Fat: g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: mg

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