Description
These Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies combine the rich flavors of buttery shortbread with zesty orange and decadent dark chocolate for a perfect holiday treat. Soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are enhanced with fresh orange zest and optionally a touch of orange juice, then studded with dark chocolate pieces and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 large orange)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon orange juice for extra flavor or moisture
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and smooth, creating the base of your cookie dough.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice if using, ensuring all flavors are evenly incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped dark chocolate pieces evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape and Chill Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Slice and Arrange Cookies: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn a light golden color.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, drizzle with melted dark chocolate or dip halfway for an elegant finish.
Notes
- For a decorative touch, drizzle or dip the cooled cookies in melted dark chocolate.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- You can substitute orange juice with additional orange zest if you prefer a drier dough.
