Description
These Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies combine the rich, buttery texture of classic shortbread with a zesty orange flavor and a decadent dark chocolate coating. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a delightful treat anytime, these cookies offer a balance of citrus brightness and indulgent chocolate in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1–2 oranges)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Coating
- 4 ounces dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for melting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy, ensuring the mixture is well combined to create a smooth base for the cookies.
- Form the Dough: Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed mixture and mix gently until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half, shape into two logs approximately 2 inches in diameter, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Slice and Bake the Cookies: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden to achieve a crisp yet tender texture.
- Cool the Cookies: After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess and allowing the cookies to set properly.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with the coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth and glossy for an easy and even chocolate coating.
- Dip Cookies: Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted chocolate, then place them on a parchment-lined tray. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes until firm.
Notes
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- For an extra orange flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon orange extract to the dough during mixing.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best taste and smoother melting.
- If you prefer, you can drizzle the melted chocolate over the cookies instead of dipping them.
- Chilling the dough is essential for easier slicing and better cookie shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
