If you’re in the mood for a treat that feels both classic and refreshingly different, Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze are about to become your latest baking obsession. Imagine crisp buttery cookies elevated with a floral hint of cardamom and crowned by a sweet-tart orange glaze. Whether you’re sharing them over a mug of tea or making a holiday cookie tray, these petite delights will have friends and family asking for the recipe before the plate is empty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze use just a handful of pantry staples, but each one brings something special to the table—think creamy richness, tender crumb, and a lively burst of citrus. Every component is essential for achieving that bright, irresistible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture!
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation of ultimate shortbread—ensures every bite is rich and tender.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, plus 1 cup for the glaze): Gives the cookies a delicate sweetness and an extra-smooth finish in the glaze.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth that enhances both the cookie and glaze flavors.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure and that signature crumbly bite.
- Ground cardamom (1/2 teaspoon): The showstopper! Delivers a subtly floral, spicy hint that makes these cookies unforgettable.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and heightens all the other flavors.
- Fresh orange juice (2–3 tablespoons): Brings zingy brightness to the glaze—freshly squeezed is best.
- Orange zest (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses extra citrus notes and a pop of color atop your cookies.
How to Make Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together in a large mixing bowl. You’ll want the mixture to turn fluffy—don’t rush this part! It only takes a few minutes and creates the ultimate tender crumb in your Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla
Pour in that splash of vanilla extract next and mix until it’s just combined. The vanilla partners beautifully with cardamom and orange, making the overall flavor profile even more inviting.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, and salt. This simple step helps distribute the cardamom evenly, so every bite sings with spice and just the right amount of seasoning.
Step 4: Mix and Shape the Dough
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Don’t over-mix—gentle handling keeps the cookies melt-in-your-mouth tender. Split the dough into two and shape each half into a disc. Wrap both snugly in plastic wrap. This trick helps the dough roll out easily later.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Pop the discs into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling not only makes the dough easier to roll but also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in those neat, bakery-fresh rounds.
Step 6: Roll, Cut, and Bake
Once chilled, roll out one dough disc at a time to a 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut shapes—rounds, stars, or hearts all work! Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, until the edges lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely before glazing.
Step 7: Whisk Up the Orange Glaze
Combine the remaining powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and pourable—you want it thick enough to set, but loose enough to drizzle. For punchier orange flavor, you can even add a drop of orange extract here!
Step 8: Glaze and Set
Drizzle or spread the bright orange glaze over the cooled cookies. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle with a little more orange zest before the glaze sets. Allow the glaze on your Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze to firm up before digging in for the ultimate treat.
How to Serve Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
Garnishes
Dress your Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze with an extra dusting of fresh orange zest for eye-catching color and a burst of citrus aroma. A scattering of chopped pistachios or edible flowers also makes for a wow-worthy finish when serving guests.
Side Dishes
These cookies are delightful next to a cup of spiced chai, strong black tea, or even a creamy latte. For a playful dessert board, pair them with fresh berries, dark chocolate squares, or candied citrus peels to echo the orange in the glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your cookies in a cellophane bag tied with ribbon for homemade gifts, or arrange them artfully on a vintage plate at brunch. Layering cookies between sheets of parchment in a decorative tin makes them perfect for holiday giving or bringing to cookie swaps. The dazzling orange glaze naturally draws eyes—let them be the centerpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Their flavor actually deepens over the first couple of days, and the glaze keeps them deliciously fresh!
Freezing
You can freeze either the unbaked dough (well-wrapped and labeled) for up to 2 months, or freeze the finished cookies after the glaze has set. If you freeze the cookies, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating
These cookies are genuinely best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you’d like to revive their just-baked aroma, let them thaw at room temp (if frozen) and pop into a low oven (about 275°F) for 3–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the glaze glossy and the crumb perfect.
FAQs
Can I make Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute a quality 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Your cookies will have a similar crumb, though texture may be a touch more delicate.
Is it possible to use bottled orange juice for the glaze?
While you can use bottled juice in a pinch, freshly squeezed orange juice and zest create the brightest, zippiest glaze. The difference is especially noticeable here, so fresh is ideal!
Can I leave out the cardamom if I’m not a fan?
Absolutely. You can simply omit the cardamom, or try substituting it with ground cinnamon for a warmer, more familiar spice note. But do give cardamom a shot—its unique flavor is what sets these cookies apart!
Do the cookies hold their shape when baked?
They do, thanks to the chilling time! Rolling and chilling the dough before baking ensures your Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze hold crisp, clean edges, even with detailed cutters.
How do I get the perfect drizzle with the orange glaze?
Use a spoon or a small squeeze bottle for more control, and let the glaze gently flow over each cookie. For a more rustic look, dip half the cookie instead—either way, let the glaze set fully before stacking or storing.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the enchanting blend of flavors in these Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze. Whether you’re baking for celebrations or craving a quiet moment of citrus sunshine, this recipe is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking—don’t forget to share (if you can resist keeping them all to yourself)!
Print
Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicate and aromatic flavors of cardamom-infused shortbread cookies topped with a zesty orange glaze. These buttery treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Prepare Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cardamom, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill Dough: Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll out dough, cut into shapes, place on lined baking sheet, and bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Notes
- You can freeze the dough for up to 2 months.
- Add a bit of orange extract for a stronger orange flavor in the glaze.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
