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Cranberry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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  • Author: Elizabeth
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delight in these buttery Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, perfectly tender with a subtle sweetness from dried cranberries and optional white chocolate chips. These classic cookies are easy to prepare, with a crumbly texture and a festive touch, ideal for holiday treats or everyday indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional for extra sweetness)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and light in texture. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour and salt, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to ensure the cookies remain tender.
  4. Incorporate Cranberries and Chips: Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  5. Chill the Dough: Roll the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help firm up the dough for easier slicing.
  6. Slice and Bake: Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  7. Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a cleaner slice, ensure the dough log is well chilled before slicing.
  • White chocolate chips are optional but add a lovely sweetness that complements the tart cranberries.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • These cookies can be frozen unbaked in log shape for up to one month; thaw in refrigerator before slicing and baking.