Description
Delight in the rich and zesty flavor of these Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies, combining buttery shortbread with a citrus twist and a decadent dark chocolate dip. Perfectly crisp and buttery with a bright hint of orange, these cookies make a sophisticated treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Dip
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp vegetable oil (optional, to thin chocolate)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, ensuring the sugar fully incorporates.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the fresh orange zest and vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with bright citrus and aromatic vanilla notes.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring continuously until a soft and cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up for easier slicing.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Slice and Arrange: Remove the chilled dough and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds, placing the cookies evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden color, then allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Melt Chocolate and Dip: Melt the chopped dark chocolate together with vegetable oil (if using) in a microwave or double boiler until smooth. Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted chocolate and set on parchment paper to let the chocolate harden before serving.
Notes
- Refrigeration is key for clean slicing and maintaining cookie shape while baking.
- Using high-quality dark chocolate enhances the rich flavor pairing with orange zest.
- The vegetable oil helps thin the chocolate for a smoother coating but is optional.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a few drops of orange extract along with the zest.
