Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Name: Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup salted butter (softened); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; For the Orange Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon orange juice; 1 tablespoon milk; optional orange zest

Published: October 28, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, these cookies come together quickly, making them an excellent choice for bakers of all levels.
Unique Flavor: The combination of cardamom and orange offers a distinctive flavor profile that sets these cookies apart from traditional shortbread.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something special.
Beautiful Presentation: The orange glaze and optional zest make these cookies visually appealing, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To bake Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together, ensuring a light and fluffy mixture.
Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the cookies, promoting uniform cooking for perfectly golden treats.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:

For the Cookies

1 cup salted butter (softened)
1/2 cup powdered (confectioners) sugar
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Orange Glaze

1 cup powdered (confectioners) sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 tablespoon milk
orange zest, to decorate (optional)

How to Make Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Cardamom and Flour

Add the ground cardamom to the creamed mixture. Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour while mixing on low speed until everything is well combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with your fingers or a fork.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Step 6: Prepare the Orange Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and milk until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more sugar or juice until desired thickness is achieved.

Step 7: Glaze the Cookies

Once cooled, drizzle or spread the orange glaze over each cookie. If desired, sprinkle with orange zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze!

How to Serve Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Cardamom shortbread cookies with orange glaze are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying them at home, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments for an enhanced experience.

With Tea or Coffee

Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite hot beverage for a perfect afternoon treat.

As Dessert Bites

Serve them as bite-sized desserts at parties, providing guests with a sweet option after meals.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange the cookies on a platter with other sweets to create an inviting dessert display.

With Fresh Fruit

Pair the cookies with slices of fresh orange or berries to add a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Creating perfect cardamom shortbread cookies with orange glaze is easy with the right techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out flawlessly.

Use softened butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a tender texture.
Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for precise measurements; too much flour can make cookies dry.
Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help prevent spreading and achieve a better shape.
Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; they should be lightly golden but not browned for optimal flavor.
Let cool completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Pairing side dishes with cardamom shortbread cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the spiced flavor of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet cookie.
Chocolate Mousse: The rich creaminess of chocolate mousse pairs beautifully, creating a decadent dessert experience.
Nut Mix: A simple blend of roasted nuts offers crunchiness that works well alongside the soft texture of the shortbread.
Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake can enhance your tea or coffee time, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with delicate recipes like these Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Bold measurements: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture of your cookies. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups specifically meant for dry and liquid ingredients.
Bold room temperature butter: Using cold or melted butter can affect the cookie’s consistency. Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for even mixing.
Bold overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Combine just until the ingredients are incorporated for the best texture.
Bold ignoring chill time: Skipping the chilling step may cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Bold not checking oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can lead to underbaked or burnt cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure proper baking temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container.
They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To prevent sticking, layer parchment paper between cookies if stacking.

Reheating Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet covered with a lid, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze:

Can I substitute cardamom in this recipe?

You can use cinnamon or nutmeg as alternatives, but they will change the flavor profile of your cookies slightly.

How do I make these cookies vegan-friendly?

Replace butter with plant-based margarine and use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk. The results will still be delicious!

What can I use instead of orange juice for the glaze?

Lemon juice or any other citrus juice works well as a substitute, providing a different but tasty flavor.

Can I add nuts to my Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze?

Yes! Chopped almonds or pistachios would pair wonderfully with the flavors of cardamom and orange.

Final Thoughts

These Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze are not only delightful but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can customize them by adding nuts, changing the glaze flavors, or incorporating dried fruits. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!

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