Name: Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread: A Festive Delight to Share
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 168 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Dried Cranberries; 1/2 cup Slivered Almonds; 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (any type); 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional)

The aroma of freshly baked cookies has a magical way of transforming any kitchen into a cozy haven. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread—a festive treat that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make with a slice-and-bake method. This delightful recipe ensures perfectly shaped cookies every time, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or as a heartfelt gift for loved ones. With the tartness of cranberries and the delightful crunch of almonds, these buttery bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, you can easily adapt them for gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor! Are you ready to elevate your baking game and impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why are Cranberry Almond Cookies So Irresistible?

Delightfully Festive: These Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread cookies bring the spirit of the holidays to your kitchen with their vibrant colors and enticing flavors, perfect for any festive occasion.
Easy Slice-and-Bake Method: With a simple method that requires minimal effort, you can have beautifully shaped cookies ready in no time. Just slice and bake for a no-fuss experience!
Versatile Flavor Combinations: Feeling adventurous? Try swapping in dried cherries or even adding white chocolate chips for a new twist!
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: These cookies are sure to impress guests and family alike, making them an excellent addition to any cookie platter or gifting occasion.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Don’t let dietary restrictions keep you from enjoying these treats! This recipe easily adapts to gluten-free flour alternatives without compromising taste, much like my Sugar Soy Glazed recipe offers options for different diets.
Perfectly Tender Texture: The combination of buttery richness, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful bite that melts in your mouth, making every cookie an indulgence worth savoring.

Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread Ingredients

• Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful cookies!

For the Shortbread

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; make sure it’s softened for optimal incorporation.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create that delicate crumb.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors with a warm, inviting aroma.
All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the structural backbone; avoid overmixing to keep them tender.
Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates the other flavors in the dough.
Dried Cranberries – Adds a vibrant color and a tart sweetness that perfectly contrasts the buttery richness.
Slivered Almonds – Introduces a delightful nutty flavor and pleasant crunch, harmonizing beautifully with the cranberries.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – The essential base for the glaze, offering a smooth and sweet finish.
Milk – Used to achieve the perfect glaze consistency; any milk works just fine.
Vanilla Extract (optional for glaze) – Mirrors the shortbread’s flavor, creating a cohesive taste.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to make your Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread and impress everyone with these festive treats!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Start by creaming together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour and salt, mixing on low speed to avoid overmixing. Finally, gently fold in the dried cranberries and slivered almonds, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape Dough
Divide the cookie dough into two equal portions and roll each into a log shape approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling step is crucial to create sliceable, non-crumbling cookies when you make your Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread.

Step 3: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the cookies. Once the dough logs are chilled, remove them from the refrigerator and slice each log into 1/4-inch rounds. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, then let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 4: Glaze Cookies
To prepare the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and optional vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread cookies using a fork or a piping bag for more control. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving or packing the cookies, enhancing their festive appearance with a sweet finish.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. Ensure the glaze is completely set before stacking to prevent sticking.

Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer cookie, these shortbread can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but be mindful of moisture in the container.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating: If you wish to enjoy them warm, pop the cookies in a toaster oven for a couple of minutes just until warmed through, enhancing their buttery goodness.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread cookies are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the shaping step, wrapping the logs tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating them. For even longer storage, the logs can be frozen for up to 3 months—just slice them straight from the freezer and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. To maintain their delightful texture, ensure the cookies cool completely before glazing them. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake, glaze, and serve these festive treats that are just as delicious, even when prepared ahead!

Tips for the Best Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread

Chill is Key: Make sure to chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This step is essential for sliceable cookies that hold their shape while baking.
Softened Butter Only: Avoid using melted butter; it can lead to an overly greasy texture and flatter cookies. Stick to softened butter for the best results.
Gentle Mixing: When combining the flour and other ingredients, mix gently and just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough shortbread!
Perfect Slices: If the dough is too hard to slice after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for 5-7 minutes before cutting. This ensures clean, even slices.
Glaze Consistency: Add milk to the glaze gradually until you reach the desired pourable consistency. This will help achieve a beautiful, smooth finish on your Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread.

Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful variations to elevate your cranberry almond experience!

Dried Fruit Swap: Replace dried cranberries with dried cherries or chopped apricots for a fruity twist. Each choice brings its unique sweetness and flavor that transforms the shortbread in a lovely way.
Nutty Alternatives: Substitute slivered almonds with chopped pecans or walnuts. These nuts impart their own distinctive textures and tastes, adding a delightful crunch that complements the cookies beautifully.
Sweet Indulgence: Add white chocolate chips to the dough for an extra layer of sweetness. The creamy chocolate pairs wonderfully with tart cranberries, creating a lovely contrast that pleases the palate.
Spice It Up: Infuse your cookies with citrus zest or a hint of warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. These aromatic additions evoke cozy vibes, making your shortbread even more irresistible during the holidays.
Gluten-Free Goodness: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. You won’t lose any delightful taste or texture, making these cookies accessible for everyone in the family.
Fancy Topping: Drizzle the cookies with melted dark chocolate after glazing for a touch of decadence. This creates a visually stunning and taste-bud-tempting treat perfect for special occasions.
Savory Twist: Experiment with adding finely grated Parmesan cheese for a savory version. It adds a unique depth of flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
Herbaceous Note: Infuse the shortbread dough with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected savory contrast. The aromatic blend with cranberries creates a sophisticated treat that’s sure to impress!

When you try these variations, you might discover a whole new level of creativity in your baking!

What to Serve with Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread?

The perfect holiday treat deserves an equally delightful array of accompaniments to create a truly memorable experience.

Festive Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai or cranberry tea enhances the cookie’s flavors and adds a cozy aroma to your gathering.
Cheese Board: Pair with creamy brie or tangy goat cheese for a sophisticated snack that balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Brighten up your plate with diced apples, pears, and citrus for a refreshing contrast that highlights the cookie’s tender texture.
Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots bring a pop of color and earthy sweetness, creating a delightful harmony with the tart cranberries.
Milk or Hot Chocolate: Whether it’s a classic glass of milk or a rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, these beverages offer a comforting complement to the buttery shortbread.
Chocolate-dipped Strawberries: Indulgent yet light, these sweet-and-tart treats add a touch of elegance to your dessert spread, matching the festive spirit.
Minty Green Salad: A vibrant salad with fresh mint and citrus dressing provides a fresh palate cleanser that balances the richness of the cookies.
Homemade Eggnog: This creamy, holiday classic pairs perfectly with the cookie’s flavors, wrapping your taste buds in warmth and nostalgia.
Shortbread Crumble over Ice Cream: Crush some cookies over vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist, bringing a lovely crunch to the creamy treat.

Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the shortbread?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter; make sure it’s softened rather than melted for the best texture. Softened butter blends smoothly with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy dough that’s crucial for perfect shortbread.

How should I store my Cranberry Almond Glazed Shortbread?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5-7 days. Just ensure that the glaze is completely set before stacking the cookies to prevent them from sticking together. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze these cookies, and how?
Very! Freeze unbaked logs of dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time to ensure they cook through.

What if my dough is too crumbly to slice?
No worries! It’s common for chilled dough to become a little stiff. If you find the dough too hard to slice, let it sit at room temperature for 5-7 minutes. This will make it easier to cut without crumbling, ensuring nice, even slices.

Are these cookies safe for people with allergies?
Be sure to check each ingredient for potential allergens! Since this recipe contains butter, flour, and nuts, it is not suitable for those with gluten or nut allergies. However, you can adapt it to gluten-free by using a suitable flour alternative, making it more inclusive for various diets.

How can I tell if the shortbread is baked properly?
Look for the edges to be lightly golden; that’s a sign they’re ready! The center might still be pale, but it will firm up as they cool. If they start to brown too much, they may be overbaked, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes in the oven.