Irresistible Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

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by Lucille

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The aroma of freshly baked Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze wafts through the air, promising a delightful treat that’s both buttery and fragrant. Each bite melts in your mouth, with hints of warm spices and zesty sweetness that dance on your palate like a waltzing couple at a fancy ball.

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Imagine these cookies gracing your kitchen countertop, the perfect companion for an afternoon tea or a cozy gathering with friends. They’ll have everyone raving about the delightful flavor and tempting scent, leaving you to bask in the glory of your baking triumph. You can almost hear the applause as they disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These cookies are incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers.
  • The flavor profile is a lovely blend of warm spices and citrus, making them irresistible.
  • Their golden hue and glossy glaze add a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
  • Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations!

Ingredients for Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming with sugar; it helps create that rich flavor.

  • Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the cookies their sweetness and helps achieve that crispy edge.

  • All-Purpose Flour: The base of our cookie dough; sifted flour ensures a light texture.

  • Ground Cardamom: A key spice in this recipe; its unique flavor elevates your shortbread to new heights.

  • Orange Zest: Adds a fresh citrus note that perfectly complements the cardamom.

  • Powdered Sugar: Used for the glaze; it creates that smooth finish we all love on cookies.

  • Fresh Orange Juice: Provides flavor and moisture for the glaze; always use fresh for the best taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Creaming Time

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes—don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add Flavor

Mix in the ground cardamom and orange zest until well combined. The mixture should smell heavenly at this point—like a warm hug from Grandma!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour while mixing on low speed. Don’t overmix; just combine until you see no dry flour left. Your dough will be soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls—aim for about one inch in diameter. Place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.

Step 5: Bake Away

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until they start turning golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them because nobody likes burnt cookies!

Step 6: Glaze It Up

Once cooled, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth. Drizzle this lovely glaze over your cookies while they’re still slightly warm so it beautifully melts into every nook.

Transfer to plates and prepare yourself for an adventure of flavors! Whether enjoyed solo with coffee or shared with friends during game night, these Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze are sure to impress everyone at your gathering!

You Must Know

  • This delightful recipe for Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze is not only a treat for your taste buds but also simple to whip up.
  • The aromatic spices and zesty glaze make them perfect for any occasion, from tea time to festive gatherings.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, mix in the cardamom and flour until combined. Shape the dough into logs, chill, slice, and bake until golden. While they cool, prepare the orange glaze for the perfect finishing touch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Swap out the orange glaze for lemon or even a raspberry reduction. Adding chopped nuts or dried fruits can give your cookies an extra crunch or chewiness.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Cardamom Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag; they’ll keep well for up to three months.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • When measuring flour, spoon it into the cup rather than scooping to avoid dense cookies.
  • Always chill your dough; it enhances flavor and texture.
  • Use fresh spices for maximum aroma and taste impact.

It was during a cozy winter evening that I first made these cookies for a friend’s gathering. Their delight was contagious, and I knew I’d found a winning recipe everyone would love!

FAQs:

What are Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze?

Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze are a delightful treat that combines the warm, aromatic flavors of cardamom with a sweet and tangy orange glaze. These cookies have a rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of cardamom gives them a unique twist compared to traditional shortbread. The orange glaze enhances their flavor, making them perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings.

How do I store Cardamom Shortbread Cookies?

To store Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them fresh for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them; just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving. Avoid stacking the cookies directly on top of each other to prevent the glaze from sticking.

Can I use other spices instead of cardamom?

Absolutely! While cardamom adds a distinct flavor to these cookies, you can experiment with other spices if desired. Cinnamon or ginger could offer a warm and spicy twist. However, keep in mind that substituting spices may alter the final taste and aroma of the cookies. Feel free to adjust the spice quantities according to your preference for an exciting variation of this recipe.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze gluten-free by substituting regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend is designed for baking so that it mimics the texture and consistency of traditional flour. You may need to adjust baking time slightly based on the specific blend used, but overall, gluten-free versions can be just as delicious!

Conclusion for Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze:

In conclusion, Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze offer a unique and flavorful twist on classic shortbread. The fragrant cardamom pairs beautifully with the citrusy orange glaze, creating a delightful cookie experience. Storing these treats properly will ensure they remain fresh for days. Don’t hesitate to explore different spices or make gluten-free variations for added enjoyment! These cookies are perfect for sharing or indulging yourself during any special occasion.

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Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze


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  • Author: Lucille
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

Description

Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze are a delightful treat that marries rich, buttery shortbread with the warm spice of cardamom and a sweet, tangy orange glaze. These cookies melt in your mouth, making them perfect for any occasion—from casual afternoon tea to festive celebrations. The elegant presentation and irresistible flavor will impress your guests and leave them asking for more. Bake a batch today and savor the joy of sharing these scrumptious cookies!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 2 tsp ground cardamom
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  2. Mix in cardamom and orange zest until well combined.
  3. Gradually sift in flour while mixing on low speed until just combined.
  4. Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them two inches apart.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden around the edges. Cool completely before glazing.
  6. Whisk powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until smooth; drizzle over cookies while slightly warm.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 30mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: <1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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