These Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are a tasty treat! The rich dark chocolate pairs perfectly with zesty orange, giving each bite a fun twist!
I love how they melt in your mouth, and they’re so easy to make! Just mix, slice, and bake. Perfect for sharing, or maybe keeping all to yourself… I won’t tell! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is crucial for achieving a tender texture. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based butter for a similar richness.
Granulated Sugar: Standard sugar adds sweetness. For a healthier option, substitution with coconut sugar or maple sugar can work, but the texture may vary.
Orange Zest: Fresh zest gives the brightest flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use bottled orange extract, but go easy on it as it’s more potent!
Dark Chocolate: I love using high-quality dark chocolate for a rich taste. If you prefer, semi-sweet chocolate chips will also do, or you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter cookie.
Flour: All-purpose flour is best, but if gluten is a concern, almond flour can offer a delightful nutty twist. Just note that it may alter the texture slightly.
How Do I Chill the Dough for Perfect Cookies?
Chilling the dough is a crucial step to keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Follow these steps:
- Once your dough is mixed, shape it into a log on a floured surface.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to avoid any air exposure, which keeps it fresh.
- Chill in the fridge for a minimum of 1 hour. If you can let it sit a bit longer, the flavors have time to meld beautifully.
This helps the cookies retain their shape and gives them a delightful texture, making them perfect for a delicious treat! Happy baking!
Dark Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped or dark chocolate chips
- Additional orange zest, for sprinkling
- Optional: finely chopped candied orange peel or orange sugar for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill the dough. Baking will take an additional 15-18 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 40 minutes, including chilling time. It’s so worth it for these melt-in-your-mouth cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or wooden spoon to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating the right texture!
3. Add Orange Zest:
Add the fresh orange zest to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir well to make sure the zest is evenly distributed, adding a lovely citrus flavor to your cookies.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the salt in your cookie dough.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cookies tender.
6. Fold in the Chocolate:
Gently fold in your chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly mixed throughout the dough.
7. Shape and Chill the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill and firm up.
8. Slice the Cookies:
Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and slice it into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly even—they’ll still taste amazing!
9. Bake the Cookies:
Place the cookie slices on your prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn a light golden color.
10. Cool the Cookies:
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Melt and Dip in Chocolate:
While the cookies cool, melt the remaining dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until it’s smooth. Make sure it’s not too hot when you dip your cookies! Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place them back on the parchment paper.
12. Add Finishing Touches:
While the chocolate is still melty, sprinkle with additional orange zest or optional candied orange peel for an extra special touch.
13. Let It Set:
Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving or storing your delicious cookies. Enjoy them at room temperature for the best flavor!
Happy baking and enjoy your delightful, chocolaty, citrusy cookies! 🍊🍫
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Absolutely! While dark chocolate provides a rich flavor, you can substitute semi-sweet or even milk chocolate if you prefer something sweeter. Just keep in mind that it will alter the overall taste of the cookies.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Just slice and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies!
What If My Dough Is Too Soft to Slice?
If your dough feels too soft after chilling, pop it in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This will firm it up a bit, making it easier to slice into rounds without losing shape.
