Name: Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Baking
Ingredients: 141 g unsalted butter, room temp (65°F); 40 g granulated sugar; 45 g powdered sugar (icing sugar); 25 g egg, room temp; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp Morton’s kosher salt; 155 g all-purpose flour; 30 g cake flour (can substitute all-purpose flour); 1 tsp cornstarch (cornflour); Zest of 1 orange; 113 g (4 oz) finely chopped semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate

Why Make This Recipe

Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with the refreshing zest of orange. They are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday cookie trays. The buttery texture of shortbread makes these cookies melt in your mouth, while the orange adds a bright flavor that balances the sweetness of chocolate. Making these cookies is easy and will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!

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How to Make Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

141 g unsalted butter, room temp (65°F)
40 g granulated sugar
45 g powdered sugar (icing sugar)
25 g egg, room temp
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp Morton’s kosher salt
155 g all-purpose flour
30 g cake flour (can substitute equal amount of all-purpose flour if you don’t have cake flour)
1 tsp cornstarch (cornflour)
Zest of 1 orange
113 g (4 oz) finely chopped semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the room-temperature egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the kosher salt, all-purpose flour, cake flour, and cornstarch.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the orange zest and finely chopped chocolate.
Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
Let cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are best served with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also enjoy them as a sweet snack during the day. These cookies are perfect for sharing at parties or packaging as gifts during the holidays.

How to Store Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.

Tips to Make Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Make sure your butter is at the right temperature for the best texture. It should be soft but not melted.
Use fresh orange zest for the best flavor.
Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, you can use lemon zest instead of orange zest, or substitute different types of chocolate like white chocolate or milk chocolate. Adding nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans can also give an interesting texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies or the unbaked dough. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of sugar?
You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor, but be aware that it may change the texture slightly.

What can I do if the dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too dry, you can add a tiny bit of milk or water to help it come together. Just add a little at a time until the texture is right.