Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while adding a burst of citrus flavor. These cookies are simple to make, making them ideal for beginner bakers or those short on time. With the rich combination of dark chocolate and refreshing orange zest, they’re a delightful addition to any dessert table.

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: 150
Protein: 1.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 20 grams
Fat: 7 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 50 mg

Why Make Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies not only offer a delicious flavor combination but also provide a touch of elegance and festivity to any occasion. The healthy fats from the butter and dark chocolate can be a part of balanced indulgence when enjoyed in moderation. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it by adding different toppings or adjusting the sweetness level.

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

Serve these delightful cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced dessert. For special occasions, consider displaying them with a sweet dipping sauce for added fun.

How to Store Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

To keep your Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to save them for later, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper. Reheat gently in the oven to refresh the cookies before serving.

Expert Tips for Cooking Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

• Use high-quality dark chocolate for dipping to enhance flavor.
• Chill the dough thoroughly for cleaner cuts and better texture.
• Experiment with different cookie shapes to match your occasion.
• For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the dough.
• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.

Delicious Variations of Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

For a different spin, try adding a teaspoon of ground espresso for a mocha flavor. Alternatively, incorporate chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch, or replace the orange zest with lemon or lime for a zesty citrus burst.

Conclusion

You will love how easy it is to whip up Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies. With their blend of flavors and perfect texture, they’re sure to be a hit whether for a festive gathering or a quiet day at home. Try them today and indulge in this delightful treat!

Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

These cookies combine rich dark chocolate and refreshing orange zest for a delightful treat that's simple to make and perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Baking

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
• 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 2 tablespoons Orange Zest, finely grated You can also use lemon or lime zest for a different flavor.
• 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 6 ounces Dark Chocolate (60–70% cocoa), melted for dipping Use high-quality dark chocolate for better flavor.

Optional Garnish

• Extra orange zest or flaky sea salt Garnish for added flavor and presentation.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla and orange zest, mixing until combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until dough forms.
5. Roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface.
6. Cut out cookies using cookie cutters into desired shapes.
7. Place the cookies on the lined baking sheets and chill for 15 minutes to firm the dough.

Baking

1. Bake cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Cool completely on wire racks.

Dipping

1. Melt the dark chocolate and dip half of each cooled cookie.
2. Garnish with extra orange zest or flaky sea salt if desired.
3. Let the chocolate set fully before stacking and serving.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months with parchment paper between layers. Reheat gently in the oven to refresh before serving.