Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Step 1

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2

Combine cranberries and 1/4 cup of sugar in a food processor and process just until the cranberries are broken down into smaller pieces. Set aside.

Step 3

Combine flour and remaining sugar in a large bowl.

Step 4

Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut in butter. You want very fine crumbs.

Step 5

Stir in extract, cranberries and sugar mixture, orange zest and orange juice (optional).

Step 6

Use your hands to knead the dough until it comes together and forms a ball. Work the dough until it comes together. If the dough is still crumbly, add orange juice, one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together.

Step 7

Shape dough into a log about two inches in a diameter and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for two hours or up to 72 hours.

Step 8

Preheat oven to 325°F.

Step 9

Cut slices of cookie dough about ¼ inch thick.

Step 10

Place about a half a cup of sugar in a bowl and coat the cookie slices with sugar.

Step 11

Place cookies on baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or just until cookies are set. Do not over bake. I remove my cookies at 12 minutes.

Step 12

Let cookies cool for several minutes on baking sheet before removing to cooling rack. Let cool completely.

Step 13

Store in airtight container for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.