Who can resist the buttery crunch of a perfectly baked shortbread cookie?
Add a touch of zesty orange and a drizzle of rich chocolate, and you’ve got a match made in dessert heaven!
These Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are a must-try for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or just indulging your sweet tooth.
Ready to bake?
Let’s dive in!
What Are Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies?
Chocolate orange shortbread cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional shortbread, a buttery Scottish biscuit that has been enjoyed for centuries.
By incorporating fresh orange zest and dipping the cookies in chocolate, this recipe takes the classic treat to a whole new level.
These cookies are perfect for:
- Holiday cookie platters.
- Afternoon tea or coffee breaks.
- Elegant homemade gifts.
The balance of buttery richness, zesty citrus, and chocolatey decadence makes these cookies a favorite for all occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the chocolate drizzle/dip:
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother melting)
Ingredient Tips:
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor—dark chocolate pairs exceptionally well with the orange zest.
- Fresh oranges are a must for vibrant, natural citrus flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
2. Chill the Dough
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.
3. Shape and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Add the Chocolate
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Add coconut oil for a shinier finish if desired.
- Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the tops with a spoon.
- Place the cookies on a parchment-lined tray and allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
- Flavor Balance: Use the right amount of orange zest to keep the flavor bright without overpowering the buttery base.
- Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the dough can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer shelf life.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, festive touch.
- White Chocolate Option: Swap the dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor.
- Sandwich Cookies: Spread orange marmalade or chocolate ganache between two shortbread cookies for a decadent upgrade.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Enjoy these cookies with a cup of Earl Grey tea or hot chocolate for the ultimate treat.
- Package them in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla or orange sorbet for an indulgent dessert.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. Alternatively, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week or frozen for up to 2 months.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading?
Ensure the dough is chilled thoroughly before baking. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the cut cookies on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before placing them in the oven.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe scales easily – just double all the ingredients and prepare the dough in batches if your mixing bowl isn’t large enough.
Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the chocolate drizzle/dip:
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter optional, for smoother melting
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Chill the Dough
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Shape and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
Add the Chocolate
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Add coconut oil for a shinier finish if desired.
- Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the tops with a spoon.
- Place the cookies on a parchment-lined tray and allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor—dark chocolate pairs exceptionally well with the orange zest.
- Fresh oranges are a must for vibrant, natural citrus flavor.