Delicious Cardamom Shortbread Cookies Topped with a Zesty Orange Glaze Recipe

Cardamom Shortbread Cookies topped with a zesty orange glaze are a delightful treat that brings warmth and a bit of the exotic to your baking routine. This recipe is perfect for cozy family gatherings or making a simple afternoon tea special. With the unique spice of cardamom and the bright flavor of orange, these cookies are not just delicious but also wonderful for sharing. Personally, I’ve made them for birthdays and festive celebrations, and they never fail to leave a lasting impression.

Why Make This Recipe

These Cardamom Shortbread Cookies are easy to whip up, making them a great choice for busy family life. The buttery texture paired with the warm flavors transports you to a cozy kitchen moment. Whether you are hosting friends or indulging during a quiet afternoon, these cookies make the perfect companion with a cup of tea or coffee.

"These cookies brought a delightful twist to our holiday cookie exchange, everyone wanted the recipe," says a happy home baker.

Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also store well and taste even better the next day, allowing you to bake in advance for gatherings. The zesty orange glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making them look as enticing as they taste.

How to Make Delicious Cardamom Shortbread Cookies Topped with a Zesty Orange Glaze Recipe

Making these cookies is straightforward and enjoyable. You start by creaming butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then gently mix in the flour, cardamom, and a pinch of salt to form a soft dough. The key is to avoid overworking the dough—this keeps your cookies tender and crumbly.

Once the dough is ready, you’ll shape it into a log, chill it until firm, and slice it into rounds for baking. While your cookies bake, prepare the zesty orange glaze to drizzle on top once they have cooled. This glaze not only adds a pop of color but also pairs beautifully with the warm spices, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your delightful treats.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Substitutions: You can replace cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor. Use gluten-free flour if needed for dietary preferences.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, and salt, mixing until just combined.
4. Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
5. Once firm, slice the log into round cookies, about 1/4 inch thick, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. While the cookies cool, prepare the orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice to reach your desired consistency.
8. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

How to Serve Delicious Cardamom Shortbread Cookies Topped with a Zesty Orange Glaze Recipe

The best way to enjoy these cookies is with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They make a lovely afternoon snack or a delightful dessert for any casual gathering. You can also plate them beautifully on a cake stand, dusted lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

For gatherings, consider pairing them with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Kids enjoy them as a sweet after-school snack, while adults appreciate their sophisticated flavor profile.

How to Store

To keep your Cardamom Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to preserve them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a freezer-safe container, layering them with parchment paper, and they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature.

Tips to Make

For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature, which makes it easier to cream with the sugar. Do not skip the chilling step for the dough, as it helps maintain the shape during baking. If you prefer a stronger flavor, add a little extra cardamom, but be cautious as this spice can be potent.

Additionally, rolling the dough in powdered sugar before slicing can give a lovely sparkle to the cookies.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with the flavors in these shortbread cookies. You can add chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for added texture. For a festive touch, consider incorporating dried cranberries or apricots.

Incorporate different citrus zests, such as lemon or lime, in the glaze for a refreshing twist. You can also create individual cookie sandwiches with the orange glaze for added fun.

FAQs

Can I use a different spice instead of cardamom?
Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg would be excellent substitutes if you prefer those flavors.

Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?
No, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the log of dough and slice it when you’re ready to bake.

How can I make the glaze thicker?
If you want a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of orange juice or add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

For More Recipe Inspiration

If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out our other recipes like the Mini Bento Cake Recipe or explore the fun of making High Protein Bagels. Each provides a family-friendly option to indulge your baking passion.

Join us on this flavorful journey by visiting our Pinterest page:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/

Emily

Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Zesty Orange Glaze

Delightful shortbread cookies flavored with cardamom and topped with a zesty orange glaze, perfect for sharing during gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Baking

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is at room temperature.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar For the cookie dough.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom Can be substituted with cinnamon or nutmeg.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt To enhance flavor.

For the glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar For the glaze.
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice Add to achieve desired glaze consistency.
• Zest of 1 orange zest of 1 orange For extra flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the flour, ground cardamom, and salt, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
4. Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Baking

1. Once firm, slice the log into round cookies, about 1/4 inch thick, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Glazing

1. While the cookies cool, prepare the orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until you reach your desired consistency.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.