Dessert Recipes

Dessert recipes are a wonderful way to add a touch of sweetness to everyday life, and this citrus shortbread cookie recipe is a refined yet easy option. These cookies have a rich, buttery texture with gentle sweetness, brightened by fresh orange zest and bits of dried cranberries. They are perfect for festive occasions, afternoon tea, or simple homemade treats. If you are looking for easy dessert recipes or simple dessert recipes with clear steps and common ingredients, this recipe offers great flavor with very little effort.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon baking powder
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, softened
¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
1 tablespoon grated orange zest, or to taste
2 cups sweetened dried cranberries, chopped

Directions

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then set aside.
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until light, smooth, and creamy.
Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms.
Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries so they are evenly spread through the dough.
Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log about 7 inches long.
Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the chilled dough into ½-inch thick rounds.
Place the slices on a baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
Bake for about 10 minutes, until the cookies are set and lightly firm without browning.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely before serving.

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 24
Yield: 2 dozen cookies