Name: Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted; Zest from 2 oranges (about 2 tablespoons); 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice (from 1/2 an orange); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk (any kind); 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 29 reviews

If you’re craving a cookie that’s buttery, tender, and packed with a zesty citrus punch, you are going to adore this Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe. These cookies strike the perfect balance between melt-in-your-mouth softness and a crisp edge, all while showcasing fresh orange flavor that feels sunny and uplifting. The added glaze is like a cheerful drizzle of brightness that transforms simple shortbread into something truly special. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these cookies deliver incredible flavor with effortless charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a brown and black speckled white marbled surface with baking ingredients neatly arranged on it. On the left, there is a metal measuring cup with a wooden handle filled with white flour. Next to it, two whole oranges are placed side by side, labeled as orange juice and orange zest. To the right of the oranges, there are two sticks of butter with green labels, placed horizontally. Above the butter, there is a metal measuring cup filled with powdered sugar, and below it, a smaller metal measuring cup with white corn starch. In front of the butter sticks, there is a small dark brown bottle of vanilla extract. All ingredients are organized clearly and the background is clean and bright. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in crafting the cookie’s tender crumb, buttery richness, and vibrant citrus notes.

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Provides the rich, creamy base that makes the cookies tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Ensures a silky sweetness that blends seamlessly without graininess.
Zest from 2 oranges (about 2 Tbsp): Infuses that unmistakable fresh citrus aroma and taste that defines these cookies.
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice (1/2 an orange): Adds bright acidity and moistens the dough slightly for the perfect texture.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances and enhances the orange flavor with a warm, familiar depth.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The structural backbone that holds everything together while keeping the cookies tender.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Softens the flour’s protein, ensuring a delicate, crumbly texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Highlights all the sweet and citrusy flavors by providing subtle contrast.
For the Orange Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk (any kind), 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice to create a shiny, zesty finish.

How to Make Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, beat together the room-temperature unsalted butter and sifted powdered sugar on high speed until you get a smooth, creamy mixture. This is the foundation of your cookie’s tender and buttery texture, so don’t rush — a good 1-2 minutes of beating makes all the difference.

Step 2: Add the Citrus and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugar are luxuriously creamy, mix in the grated orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. These ingredients bring a vibrant, refreshing brightness that sets these cookies apart from your usual shortbread. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to make sure everything combines evenly, delivering even citrus bursts in every bite.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Next, switch your mixer to low speed and add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. This step is delicate — you want to combine everything just until the dough comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Overmixing could make the cookies tough, so keep it gentle yet thorough to maintain that tender crumb.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough

Lightly dust your counter or a sheet of parchment paper with flour, then turn the dough out onto it. Using a floured rolling pin, roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. The dough is perfect when it’s firm enough to handle but soft enough to roll smoothly. Then, grab a 2-inch cookie cutter to cut out your shapes. Don’t worry about scraps — simply re-roll and keep cutting until all your dough is used.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your cookie rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1-2 inches between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for the edges to turn set and lightly golden. The smell during baking is pure orange-scented magic. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack — this prevents them from breaking and allows them to finish cooling perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare and Apply the Orange Glaze

While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and fresh orange juice to create the citrus glaze. Dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze and return them to the cooling rack. For an extra pop of color and sparkle, sprinkle with some orange zest or coarse sugar. Allow the glaze to set for 30 minutes up to an hour — this finishing touch adds that perfect glossy sweetness and bright citrus zing.

How to Serve Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe

A stack of five round, golden shortbread cookies sits on a wire rack over a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a scalloped edge and is topped with a smooth white glaze that slightly drips down the sides. The top cookie has a bite taken out of it, showing its soft, crumbly texture inside. Small pieces of orange zest are scattered on the glaze and around the cookies. To the side, a dried orange slice adds a rustic touch. The whole scene has a warm, inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving these cookies with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest or edible flower petals immediately elevates their visual appeal and intensifies the fragrance. You could also add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to the glaze for a sophisticated twist that makes the citrus flavors shine even more.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a light citrusy herbal infusion. For something bolder, try them alongside a creamy vanilla bean latte or a bright glass of sparkling lemonade — both balance the sweetness and lift the citrus notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gift-giving, stack these Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe on a pretty plate or tiered dish, tied with a ribbon and a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for a herbaceous touch. You can also sandwich a dollop of whipped orange buttercream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and glazed, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep beautifully for up to 5 days, allowing flavors to meld further and the glaze to stay delectably fresh. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the unglazed cookie dough logs or individual unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh for best results. You can also freeze fully baked and glazed cookies by layering them carefully and sealing airtight, then thaw gently before serving.

Reheating

These cookies are best enjoyed freshly baked or at room temperature, but if you prefer a slightly warm cookie, pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving because it can soften the glaze and affect texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute orange zest with lemon or lime?

Absolutely! While the traditional Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe shines with orange, swapping zest with lemon or lime zest will give a different but equally delicious citrus twist.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of arrowroot powder or add an extra 2 tablespoons of flour. The key is to keep the cookies tender, so avoid skipping it entirely.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. The cookies might be slightly more delicate but will still taste wonderful with the bright citrus glaze.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

This recipe doesn’t require chilling the dough, making it super quick to prepare. However, if your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too soft, a brief chill helps with easier rolling and cutouts.

Why do the cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture?

The combination of cornstarch, powdered sugar, and a generous amount of butter creates a tender crumb that literally melts on your tongue, making these Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe uniquely delightful.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Orange Shortbread Cookies with Bright Citrus Glaze Recipe enough if you’re looking for a cookie that marries buttery richness with uplifting citrus brightness. Its simple ingredients and easy steps yield a beautiful cookie perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying alongside your favorite cup of tea. Once you try these, your cookie jar will never be quite the same!