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Chocolate Dipped Orange Shortbread Cookies
There is something undeniably elegant about shortbread. Its simplicity is its strength—but when done right, it becomes a canvas for flavor, texture, and aroma. These Chocolate Dipped Orange Shortbread Cookies take that classic, buttery foundation and elevate it with bright citrus zest and silky dark chocolate, creating a cookie that feels refined, nostalgic, and indulgent all at once.
This is the kind of cookie you’d expect to find neatly arranged in a European bakery window or served alongside espresso at the end of a dinner party. The crumb is tender and melt-in-your-mouth, thanks to a high butter content and gentle handling. Orange zest perfumes the dough without overpowering it, offering a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. Then comes the final touch: a glossy dip of chocolate that adds depth, contrast, and visual appeal.
These cookies are ideal for holidays, gifting, afternoon tea, or anytime you want a dessert that feels special without being complicated. They store beautifully, look stunning on platters, and strike the perfect balance between sweet, bitter, and buttery.
Ingredients
Orange Shortbread Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Chocolate Dip
- 8 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for shine)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in orange zest and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add flour and salt gradually, mixing just until dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until smooth.
- Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes.
- Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, spacing slightly apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- Cool completely on wire racks before dipping.
- Melt chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals.
- Stir in coconut oil if using.
- Dip half of each cookie into melted chocolate and place on parchment.
- Allow chocolate to set fully before serving or storing.
Chocolate Dipped Orange Shortbread Cookies
Tender, buttery shortbread cookies infused with fresh orange zest and dipped in rich dark chocolate.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare shortbread dough and shape cookies.
- Bake until lightly golden.
- Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
