Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies with Orange Buttercream Frosting

These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery, crumbly goodness, zesty orange flavor, and tart cranberries. Topped with a smooth orange buttercream frosting and fresh orange zest, they make a bright, festive treat!

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Yield

Makes about 24 cookies.

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Ingredients

For the Shortbread Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest (about 1 large orange)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Orange Buttercream Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped pieces of dried cranberries
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, orange zest, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the chopped cranberries, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough comes together (it may be crumbly but should hold when pressed).
4. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Cut out cookies using a round or fluted cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter).
4. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Step 4: Make the Orange Buttercream Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
3. If the frosting is too thick, add a few more drops of orange juice. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

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Step 5: Frost and Decorate

1. Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a thin layer of the orange buttercream frosting on top of each cookie.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of finely chopped cranberries and fresh orange zest for extra flavor and a pop of color. 

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Serving and Storage

• Serve at room temperature. These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving): 24 Cookies
Calories, 120 | Protein, 1g | Carbohydrates, 16g | Fiber, 0g | Net Carbohydrates, 16g | Fat, 6g | Saturated Fat, 3g | Cholesterol, 15mg | Sodium, 35mg | Sugars, 9g | Glycemic Index, Medium

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Wonderful for Gifts! 

These Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies with Orange Buttercream Frosting make the perfect homemade gift for the holidays or any special occasion. Their festive look, zesty citrus flavor, and delightful buttery texture are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face!

Packaging Ideas:

• Place the cookies in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper for a classic presentation.
• Stack them in a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon and a sprig of fresh rosemary or a cinnamon stick for a rustic, elegant touch.
• Include a handwritten note or recipe card to make your gift even more personal and thoughtful.

These cookies are not only delicious but also a beautifully heartfelt way to share the joy of homemade treats with friends, family, and neighbors. They’re sure to be remembered long after the last crumb is gone!