This is a great holiday treat, spread with these buttery, melt-in-your-mouth Cardamom Citrus Shortbread Cookies! This perfect small-batch recipe brings together the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom with a refreshing citrus twist. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering, giving a thoughtful gift, or indulging yourself, these cookies are a holiday must-have.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20–25 minutes
• Total time: 30–35 minutes
• Serving Size: Serves 2
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp Heray Spice cardamom
• 1/2 tbsp orange zest (about 1 small orange)
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the Flavorings:
• Mix in the cardamom (grind first) and orange zest until evenly incorporated.
3. Incorporate the Flour:
• Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together. The dough will be crumbly at first but should hold together when pressed.
4. Chill the Dough:
• Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
5. Shape and Bake:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
• Use a cookie cutter to cut into your desired shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake the Cookies:
• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cardamom due to its floral aroma, often referred to as the “Queen of Spices,” is a staple in both sweet and savory dishes across Middle Eastern, Afghani, Indian, and Scandinavian cuisines. The addition of orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note reminiscent of festive flavors found in holiday traditions worldwide. Together, they create a cookie that’s both comforting and sophisticated, embodying the warmth and cheer of the holiday season.
