Cranberry Almond Shortbread: 1 Amazing Festive Treat

Name: Cranberry Almond Shortbread: 1 Amazing Festive Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup vegan butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped if large; 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted if preferred; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional); Pinch of salt

by basmer

22 de October de 2025

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Cranberry almond shortbread cookies have become my go-to for a festive treat, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! I remember my first attempt at making homemade cranberry almond shortbread; I was a bit intimidated by shortbread, but this recipe is surprisingly simple. The combination of tart dried cranberries and the subtle crunch of toasted almonds in a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie is pure magic. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and the aroma filling your kitchen while they bake is simply divine, making them an ideal addition to any holiday cookie platter. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with these delightful cookies! They’re more than just a treat; they’re an experience.

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Seriously, they’re incredibly tender.
Perfectly balanced flavor: The tartness of the cranberries and the subtle nuttiness of the almonds are a dream team.
Easy to make: This easy cranberry almond shortbread recipe is foolproof, even for beginners.
Festive appeal: Their beautiful colors make them a standout on any holiday platter.
Wonderful homemade gift: Package them up for a thoughtful and delicious present.
Customizable: Easily adapt this shortbread cookies with cranberries and almonds recipe to your liking.
Vegan-friendly: Enjoy a classic treat without any animal products.
Impressive results: You’ll be complimented all season long on this delicious cranberry almond shortbread cookies.

Ingredients for Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

To make these delightful cranberry almond cookie recipe delights, you’ll need these simple ingredients. The vegan butter and powdered sugar create that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture that shortbread is known for. All-purpose flour forms the base, while the dried cranberries add a lovely tartness and chewy contrast. Toasted sliced almonds provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, making these almond cranberry shortbread cookies truly special. Don’t forget the vanilla extract for warmth and an optional splash of almond extract to really amp up the nutty notes. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness beautifully.

1 cup vegan butter, softened – this is key for that tender, crumbly texture
1/2 cup powdered sugar – ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth cookie
2 cups all-purpose flour – or a gluten-free blend for a GF option
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped if large – for that classic festive tartness
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted if preferred – adds a lovely crunch and nutty depth
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for a warm, comforting flavor
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional) – enhances the almond flavor
Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness and brings out flavors

How to Make Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Whipping up a batch of these festive cookies is a joy, and the process is quite straightforward. You’ll be enjoying your homemade cranberry almond shortbread in no time!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup vegan butter, softened and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for that signature melt-in-your-mouth shortbread texture.
Step 3: Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, the optional 1/4 teaspoon almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Gradually add the 2 cups all-purpose flour. Mix until a soft dough begins to form. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
Step 5: Gently fold in the 1/2 cup dried cranberries and the 1/4 cup sliced almonds. You want to distribute them evenly throughout the dough for the perfect bite in every one of your shortbread cookies with cranberries and almonds.
Step 6: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it much easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much as they bake.
Step 7: Once chilled, place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into your desired shapes using cookie cutters.
Step 8: Arrange the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
Step 9: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can make them too crisp.
Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before you move them. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma of these festive cranberry almond cookies will fill your kitchen!

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Want to ensure your cranberry almond shortbread cookies are absolutely perfect? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will elevate your baking from good to absolutely spectacular, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful flavor every time.

Always use softened, not melted, vegan butter. This is crucial for achieving the signature tender crumb of shortbread.
Don’t overmix the dough once the flour is added; this can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
Toasting your sliced almonds beforehand, if you have the time, adds an extra layer of nutty depth to your shortbread cookies with cranberries and almonds.
Chill the dough thoroughly. This makes rolling and cutting much easier and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies?

The secret to truly perfect cranberry almond shortbread cookies lies in the ingredients and technique. Using softened vegan butter and not overmixing the flour are key. Chilling the dough is also essential for that perfect, tender texture.

Can I make Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. You can also bake the cookies and store them, or even freeze baked and cooled cookies for up to 3 months. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out these cold lunch ideas for adults.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies?

The most common mistake is overmixing the dough, which results in tough cookies. Another pitfall is not chilling the dough sufficiently, leading to excessive spreading. Avoid overbaking; the edges should just be lightly golden.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

These versatile cranberry almond shortbread cookies are perfect for so many occasions! They’re delightful on their own with a cup of tea or coffee. For a truly festive pairing, try serving them alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider or a creamy vegan eggnog. They also make a wonderful addition to a holiday dessert board, perhaps nestled between a rich chocolate cake and some fresh fruit salad. If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant treat to share, these almond and dried cranberry cookies are always a hit, especially during the holiday season.

Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Wondering about the nutritional breakdown of these delightful cranberry almond shortbread cookies? Here’s a look at what you can expect per cookie. These numbers give you a good idea of the deliciousness you’re enjoying, whether you’re tracking macros or just curious. Remember, these figures are based on the recipe as written and may vary slightly depending on your specific ingredients. For more information on healthy eating, consider these 3 foods you should eat less of to stay healthy.

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 0mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Properly storing your cranberry almond shortbread cookies ensures they stay fresh and delicious. After baking, it’s crucial to let them cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents any residual heat from creating condensation, which can make them soggy. Once fully cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, your holiday cranberry almond shortbread can be frozen. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This is a fantastic way to keep your homemade cranberry almond shortbread ready for any occasion!

To reheat, if desired, you can gently warm them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 3-5 minutes until they are just warmed through. This can bring back a bit of their fresh-baked crispness, especially if they’ve been stored for a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones for this cranberry almond shortbread recipe?

While fresh cranberries can be used, they have a much higher moisture content and can make your cookies spread more. If you opt for fresh, you’ll want to chop them finely and potentially increase the baking time slightly. Dried cranberries offer a more concentrated sweetness and chewiness that works perfectly with the almond cranberry shortbread cookies.

What makes these shortbread cookies with cranberries and almonds vegan?

The key to making these cranberry almond shortbread cookies vegan is the use of plant-based butter (like a good quality vegan butter stick) instead of dairy butter. All the other ingredients, like flour, sugar, cranberries, and almonds, are naturally vegan. This recipe proves you don’t need dairy to achieve that wonderful, buttery shortbread texture.

Why are my cranberry almond cookies not crumbly enough?

If your cranberry almond shortbread cookies aren’t as crumbly as you’d like, it might be due to overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Overworking the gluten can lead to a tougher, less crumbly texture. Another reason could be using melted butter instead of softened butter. Ensure your vegan butter is softened to room temperature for the best results.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits to this shortbread cookies recipe?

Absolutely! This cranberry almond shortbread recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to swap the almonds for chopped pecans or walnuts, or add other dried fruits like cherries or chopped apricots. You could even add a hint of orange zest for a citrusy twist. Get creative with your homemade cranberry almond shortbread!

Variations of Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies You Can Try

While this cranberry almond shortbread recipe is a classic for a reason, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many delicious ways to switch up these shortbread cookies with cranberries and almonds. Whether you’re catering to specific dietary needs or just want to explore new flavor profiles, these variations offer something for everyone.

Gluten-Free Cranberry Almond Shortbread: For those avoiding gluten, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. You might find the texture is slightly different, but the delicious flavor of cranberries and almonds will shine through beautifully.
Citrus Zest Boost: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough along with the extracts. This brightens the flavor profile and adds a wonderful aromatic quality to your festive cranberry almond cookies.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted vegan white chocolate over the tops of your almond and dried cranberry cookies. This adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, making them even more decadent.
Spiced Shortbread: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced version of these homemade cranberry almond shortbread cookies.