Created on January 6th, 2026 at 05:04 pm
A Buttery Holiday Classic with Bright Citrus Flavor
There is something timeless about shortbread during the holidays. The buttery aroma, the delicate crumb, and the simple pleasure of a cookie that does not need frosting or decoration to feel special. These cranberry orange shortbread cookies capture that quiet elegance, blending rich butter with bursts of tart cranberry and fresh orange zest that instantly feel festive.
This is the kind of cookie that belongs on a holiday cookie tray next to mugs of coffee and tea. It feels familiar and nostalgic, yet the citrus notes add a brightness that keeps every bite from feeling heavy. Whether you are baking for family, friends, or simply for yourself, these cookies bring warmth and calm to the busiest time of year.
Quick Facts
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
24 cookies
Kitchen Utensils
Shortbread dough is simple to work with, and you only need a few basic tools to make these cookies from start to finish.
• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or wooden spoon
• Microplane or zester
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife
Why Cranberry and Orange Are a Holiday Favorite
Cranberry and orange are a classic holiday pairing for a reason. Cranberries bring tartness and color, while orange zest adds fragrance and warmth without overwhelming sweetness. Together, they balance the richness of butter beautifully.
In shortbread, this combination really shines. The cookies stay tender and rich, while the fruit and citrus keep each bite feeling light and bright. These flavors feel festive without relying on spices, making them perfect for anyone who loves a more refined holiday cookie.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Dough
• Unsalted butter softened
• Powdered sugar
• Orange zest
• Vanilla extract
• All purpose flour
• Salt
For the Mix Ins
• Dried cranberries finely chopped
Optional Finishing
• Extra orange zest
• Coarse sugar
Instructions
Shortbread dough comes together quickly, but chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and texture.
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth and pale.
- Add the orange zest and vanilla extract and mix until evenly combined.
- Add the flour and salt and mix just until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, distributing them evenly through the dough.
- Shape the dough into a log or press it into a flat rectangle, depending on your preferred cookie shape.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Slice the dough into even pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving or storing.
Tips and Substitutions
• Use high quality butter for the best shortbread texture.
• Fresh orange zest makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Swap dried cherries for cranberries if desired.
• For extra citrus flavor, add a small splash of orange extract.
• Keep the cookies pale for a classic shortbread look.
Storage and Make Ahead
These shortbread cookies store beautifully, making them ideal for holiday planning. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
The dough can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to two days before baking. Baked cookies freeze well for up to one month, making them perfect for advance holiday prep.
FAQ
Can I freeze the dough
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw slightly before slicing.
Do these cookies spread
Very little. Chilling helps them keep their shape.
Can I use fresh cranberries
Dried cranberries work best for texture and moisture control.
Are these cookies very sweet
No, they are lightly sweet and buttery, which is typical for shortbread.
Serving Ideas for the Holidays
These cranberry orange shortbread cookies are perfect served with coffee, espresso, or tea. Add them to holiday cookie boxes, serve them after dinner, or place them on a dessert platter alongside chocolates and biscotti.
They are also lovely as a simple homemade gift. Wrapped in parchment and tied with twine, they feel thoughtful, elegant, and personal without being complicated.
A Cookie That Belongs in Every Holiday Kitchen
This is the kind of recipe that becomes part of a yearly tradition. It is simple enough to make every season, yet special enough to feel like a treat you look forward to. The flavors are classic, comforting, and quietly festive.
Save this recipe for holiday baking days, cozy afternoons, and moments when you want your kitchen to smell like butter and citrus and the joy of the season.
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies for the Holidays
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Hand mixer or wooden spoon
- Microplane
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix Ins
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth and pale.
- Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.
- Add flour and salt and mix just until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped dried cranberries.
- Shape the dough and chill for 15 minutes.
- Slice the dough and place cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until set and lightly golden on the bottom.
- Cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
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