DESSERTS

Delicious Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe

by basmer

18 de December de 2025

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Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies are a festive treat combining buttery shortbread, rich cocoa, and bright orange zest. The moment the scent of chocolate and orange fills the air, something magical happens—this delightful blend creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these cookies will enchant your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

These chocolate orange cookies are not only delicious, but they also bring several benefits to your baking repertoire. First, the combination of cocoa and orange zest creates a uniquely rich flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating. Second, this easy chocolate orange cookie recipe allows you to enjoy baking without the fuss. Third, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays. You can also easily adapt the recipe for gluten-free chocolate orange shortbread or vegan chocolate orange cookies. Finally, they make for an elegant dessert option that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee. Enjoy the best of both worlds with these delightful cookies!

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
Zest of 1 large orange
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
4 ounces dark chocolate, melted (for dipping or drizzling)
Additional orange zest or flaky salt (optional garnish)

How to Make Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cream the butter, sugar, and orange zest in a large bowl or stand mixer until light and fluffy. This process takes about 2-3 minutes and infuses the dough with citrus flavor from the start.
Step 2: Mix in the cocoa powder and sea salt until well incorporated, providing a rich, chocolatey depth that balances the brightness of the orange perfectly.
Step 3: Gradually add the flour, mixing just until combined. The dough will seem slightly crumbly at first but should come together when pressed.
Step 4: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Divide in half, then roll each half into a log (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just set.
Step 6: Cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, dip or drizzle with melted dark chocolate. If desired, sprinkle with extra orange zest or flaky salt for a beautiful finish.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Store in an airtight container for freshness.
Adjust the amount of cocoa for desired chocolate intensity.
For a softer texture, consider using a little less flour.
Experiment with different types of chocolate for dipping or drizzling.
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Pair them with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. Consider serving them as part of a dessert platter during festive gatherings. You could also incorporate them into a chocolate orange dessert idea by crumbling them over ice cream for added crunch and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold. This storage method ensures you have a sweet treat ready at your fingertips!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies?

The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients. Use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant flavor, and ensure your butter is softened properly for a smooth dough. A balance between cocoa and orange zest is key to achieving that perfect flavor harmony.

Can I make Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a fantastic option for holiday baking or when you want to have cookies on hand without the last-minute rush.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your butter is at the right temperature, and don’t overmix the dough once the flour is added. This will keep your cookies tender. Additionally, make sure to chill the dough well before slicing, as this helps maintain their shape during baking.

Variations of Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your cookie variations! You can try adding a handful of orange chocolate chip cookies for an extra burst of flavor. For a twist, consider making cocoa orange biscuits by using different types of chocolate or adding nuts for texture. Those looking for a healthier option might enjoy gluten-free chocolate orange shortbread by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try these Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you’re interested in more cookie options, don’t miss our Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

For additional baking tips, you can refer to this baking tips guide from King Arthur Baking.

Delicious Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Author: basmer
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Chocolate orange shortbread cookies are a festive treat combining buttery shortbread, rich cocoa, and bright orange zest.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
Zest of 1 large orange
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
4 ounces dark chocolate, melted (for dipping or drizzling)
Additional orange zest or flaky salt (optional garnish)

Instructions

Cream the butter, sugar, and orange zest until light and fluffy.
Mix in the cocoa powder and sea salt until well incorporated.
Gradually add the flour, mixing just until combined.
Turn the dough out, knead it gently, divide in half, and roll into logs. Chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and bake for 10–12 minutes.
Cool completely on a wire rack. Dip or drizzle with melted dark chocolate and garnish if desired.