# Capture the Magic of Baking with Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
## Introduction
If there’s one cookie that melts in the mouth and spices up the spirit, it’s the Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze. A delightful cookie crafted with love, infused with the warming spice of cardamom, and then washed in a sweet and tangy orange glaze.
## Why Make this Recipe?
Paving the path to heavenly joy, these cookies serve as delightful snacks, thoughtful gifts, or a treat to top off any special occasion. The natural spice from the cardamom and the citrusy punch of the orange glaze balances the sweetness, and offers a unique flavor palate you won’t resist craving.
## How to Make Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
Creating these delightful treats is simpler than you may think, though the result is anything but plain! Here’s a step by step guide:
### Ingredients
#### For the Shortbread Cookies:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp salt
#### For the Orange Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
### Directions
1. Prepare the Cookies: Bring your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix together the softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy, then stir in the vanilla extract. Sift together the flour, cardamom, and salt. Slowly add this dry mix to the butter mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Form this dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the baking sheet 2 inches apart. Press these balls gently to flatten them slightly before baking for 18-20 minutes. Once the edges turn a golden brown, let the cookies cool for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Orange Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. Add more juice for the desired consistency, and stir in the orange zest.
3. Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle the orange glaze over the cookies, and let them set for about 10 minutes before serving.
## How to Serve Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
Pair these aromatic and zesty Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. They taste amazing on their own, and enhance the flavor of any beverage with which they are served.
## How to Store Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will retain their freshness for up to a week.
## Tips to Make Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze
To intensify the flavor, allow the cookie dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before baking. Roll them between two sheets of parchment for a smooth and easy rolling process, and be careful not to overcook them. Remove them from the oven as soon as they begin to brown on the edges.
## Variation
Use lemon instead of orange for the glaze to experience a different yet delicious twist.
## FAQs
1. **Can I use ground cardamom pods instead of ready ground cardamom?** Yes, grinding your own cardamom pods offers a fresher more potent flavor.
2. **Can I freeze the dough for later?** Absolutely! Be sure to wrap it securely. You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
3. **What else can I use the orange glaze on?** The glaze works excellently on other baked goods like muffins, cakes, or doughnuts.
Crafted with joy and baked to perfection, these Cardamom Shortbread Cookies are the perfect companion for a cosy afternoon or festive celebration. Happy baking!