Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that beautifully combines the rich taste of dark chocolate with the bright zing of orange. This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for both baking newbies and seasoned pros. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these irresistible cookies that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 125
Protein: 1.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 16 grams
Fat: 6.5 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 50 mg
Why Make Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The combination of dark chocolate and orange is not just a feast for your taste buds; it also offers a bit of zest that can brighten your day. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering with friends. Plus, they can easily be customized with different garnishes or flavor twists, making them suitable for every palate.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies Step by Step
Ingredients
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (softened)
Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Orange Zest: 2 tablespoons finely grated
All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/4 cups
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Dark Chocolate: 6 ounces (60–70% cocoa), melted for dipping
Optional Garnish: Extra orange zest or flaky sea salt
Directions
Set oven to 325°F (160°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Cream butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add vanilla and orange zest. Mix in flour and salt until dough forms. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut with cookie cutters into desired shapes. Place cookies on lined baking sheets. Chill for 15 minutes to firm dough. Bake 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on wire racks. Melt dark chocolate and dip half of each cooled cookie. Garnish with zest or sea salt if desired. Let chocolate set fully before stacking and serving.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a warm beverage, like tea or coffee, for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a wonderful addition to dessert platters or gift boxes during the holidays. To elevate the experience, consider serving them alongside a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Store Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. For freezing, pack the cooled cookies in an airtight freezer bag, and they will last for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Expert Tips for Cooking Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Experiment with different zest for a unique flavor twist; lemon or lime would work well.
- For cleaner cookie edges, chill the dough before cutting out shapes.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, increase the amount of powdered sugar slightly.
- Use a high-quality dark chocolate for dipping for the best flavor and texture.
Delicious Variations of Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for an exciting twist. You can also enhance the flavor profile by incorporating finely chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds. Another fun variation is to replace the orange zest with a different citrus zest like grapefruit or lemon for a fresh change.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
What can I use instead of dark chocolate for dipping?
You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate as alternatives for dipping if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before baking.
Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
Conclusion
Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are a mouthwatering treat that is both easy and fun to make. Their unique combination of flavors offers something special, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature.
- 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar Increase slightly for sweeter cookies.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 tablespoons Orange Zest, finely grated Can replace with lemon or lime zest for different flavor.
- 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 6 ounces Dark Chocolate, melted for dipping Use high-quality dark chocolate for best flavor.
- Optional Garnish: Extra orange zest or flaky sea salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Set oven to 325°F (160°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Add vanilla and orange zest, and mix in flour and salt until dough forms.
- Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut with cookie cutters into desired shapes and place on lined baking sheets.
- Chill for 15 minutes to firm the dough.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool completely on wire racks.
- Melt dark chocolate and dip half of each cooled cookie.
- Garnish with zest or sea salt if desired.
- Let chocolate set fully before stacking and serving.
