Description
These Chocolate Dipped Orange Shortbread Cookies combine buttery, tender shortbread infused with bright orange zest and a hint of vanilla, finished with a decadent dark or semi-sweet chocolate dip. Perfect for a delightful treat that balances citrus freshness with rich chocolate.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread 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 additional orange zest for garnish
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the orange zest and vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution before gradually adding to the wet mixture. Mix until dough forms without overworking.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a 2-inch diameter log, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, which helps in easy slicing and better cookie texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced properly for even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid over-baking to keep the shortbread tender. Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack before dipping.
- Dip in Chocolate and Garnish: Dip half of each cooled cookie into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place dipped cookies on parchment paper and garnish with orange sprinkles or extra orange zest if desired for visual appeal and extra flavor.
- Set Chocolate: Allow the chocolate to fully set at room temperature before serving or storing the cookies in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for proper creaming with sugar.
- Chilling the dough is essential for clean slices and better cookie shape.
- Use good quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for dipping for best flavor.
- Cookies keep well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Optional garnishes add a festive look and intensify the orange flavor.
