Description
Delight in these Chocolate Dipped Orange Shortbread Cookies, perfect for combining the rich buttery texture of classic shortbread with a zesty hint of orange and a decadent dip of dark chocolate. These cookies are elegantly simple to make and ideal for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (from 1 orange)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Dip and Garnish
- 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- Optional: orange sprinkles or extra orange zest for garnish
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Then add the orange zest and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until well combined to infuse the dough with fresh citrus aroma.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a cohesive dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a 2-inch diameter log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the dough for easier slicing and baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled dough and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place these cookie rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Remove from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding to decorate.
- Dip in Chocolate and Garnish: Once the cookies have cooled, dip half of each cookie into the melted dark or semi-sweet chocolate. Place dipped cookies on parchment paper and optionally garnish with orange sprinkles or additional orange zest for a festive finish.
- Set and Store: Allow the chocolate coating to fully set at room temperature before serving or storing the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
- Chilling the dough is essential for clean slicing and maintaining cookie shape.
- If desired, you can use white chocolate for dipping to create a different flavor profile.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a more intense orange flavor, you can add a few drops of orange extract along with the zest.
