Introduction
There’s something timeless about a shortbread cookie—crisp, buttery, and just sweet enough. Add a pop of orange zest and you take it to the next level. These Orange Zest Shortbread Cookies are light, elegant, and bursting with refreshing citrus flavor. Perfect for an afternoon tea, a sunny brunch spread, or as a homemade gift, these cookies are as pretty as they are delicious.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is:
- Simple to make with basic pantry ingredients
- Infused with citrus for a vibrant flavor that cuts the richness beautifully
- Perfect for decorating or dressing up with a white chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar
- Make-ahead friendly — ideal for the holidays or entertaining
And best of all, your kitchen will smell like an orange grove while they bake. 🍊
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar 🍰
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🍞
- 1 tbsp orange zest 🍊 (more if you love it extra citrusy)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 🌿
- A pinch of salt 🧂
Optional Add-ons
- White chocolate drizzle
- Extra zest or sanding sugar for topping
- Powdered sugar dusting for a snowy finish
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light, fluffy, and smooth.
2. Add Flavor
Mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest until evenly distributed.
3. Mix the Dough
Gradually add flour and a pinch of salt, mixing just until the dough comes together into a soft ball.
4. Chill
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm it up for rolling and cutting.
5. Preheat and Roll
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
6. Bake
Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are just lightly golden.
7. Cool and Serve
Cool on a wire rack.
Decorate or dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Serve with tea, coffee, or blueberry lemonade for a citrus-forward treat!
Tips for Success
- Chill the dough thoroughly to keep the cookies from spreading.
- Don’t overbake — the edges should be barely golden for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Use fresh zest — dried zest doesn’t deliver the same burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These cookies shine on their own, but here’s how to turn them into a full experience:
- Afternoon tea: Pair with easy coconut macaroons or shortbreads in other flavors.
- Giftable treat box: Add in chocolate chip cookie dough brownie bombs for contrast.
- Spring brunch: Serve with spring flower pretzel bites for a seasonal spread.
- Fancy starter: Kick off a citrus-themed dinner with this elegant baked brie appetizer.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough or baked cookies (separated by parchment) for up to 2 months.
- Refrigerator: Not necessary unless you’ve drizzled with chocolate or added toppings that need chilling.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Coconut Macaroons – chewy and tropical.
- Blueberry Lemonade – the perfect citrus pairing.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – for the bold chocolate lovers.
- Spring Flower Pretzel Bites – sweet, salty, and festive.
Final Thoughts
These Orange Zest Shortbread Cookies are the kind of treat that never goes out of style—simple, elegant, and filled with bright flavor. Whether you’re baking them for a spring picnic, a holiday tin, or just because your kitchen needs a little citrusy sunshine, these cookies are guaranteed to delight.
💬 Tried them? Snap a pic and tag us—let us know how you zested it up!
👉 Follow Chef Maniac for more cheerful bakes and feel-good food!
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