Imagine biting into a cookie that’s buttery, tender, and beautifully perfumed with cardamom, then finished with a sweet orange glaze that shines like sunshine. That’s exactly what you get with Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze! These cookies are the perfect marriage of classic shortbread richness and the exotic aroma of cardamom, all brightened by a citrusy drizzle. Cardamom is known as the “Queen of Spices” in many cultures, and here, it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special—it’s like a little bit of magic in every bite. If you enjoy my popular Lemon Drizzle Loaf, you’ll love this recipe too, as it’s similarly quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear fast. So let’s get ready to create a batch that will bring smiles all around!
What is Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze?
Let’s break down that long (and delicious) name, shall we? Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze aren’t just regular cookies: they’re buttery shortbread treats kissed by fragrant cardamom, then crowned with a sweet, glossy orange glaze on top. Why the fancy name? Well, how else could we describe cookies that sound (and taste) as sophisticated as these? You might ask, “Are shortbread cookies and classic sugar cookies twins?” Not quite—they’re more like cousins, and cardamom is the life-of-the-party relative! Remember, the way to a man’s (or anyone’s) heart is through their stomach, so why not bake up a batch? Go on, seize your apron and treat yourself!
Why You’ll Love This
Prepare to fall in love with these Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze for three irresistible reasons. First, their main highlight is the heavenly combination of buttery shortbread and aromatic cardamom—each bite is warm, cozy, and just a bit exotic. Second, baking these from scratch at home is remarkably cost-effective compared to bakery-bought gourmet cookies, and you get to control the ingredients along the way. Last but not least, the vibrant orange glaze adds a sweet, tangy kick and just the right amount of sparkle; a sprinkle of fresh orange zest makes them extra special and pretty. If you’ve enjoyed my Earl Grey Shortbread, you’ll appreciate how cardamom adds an exciting new layer of flavor. Give these a try and delight your friends and family!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze are as simple as they are delicious. The dough comes together quickly with basic pantry staples, and the aromatic cardamom infuses every crumb. The baking process is straightforward and gives you wonderfully tender cookies in just about an hour, including chilling time. The orange glaze is a breeze to mix up and drizzles elegantly over each cookie for a beautiful and tasty finish—no fancy skills required! You can expect to have a tray of these beauties ready to share (or savor solo) in under 90 minutes start to finish.
Ingredients
1 cup (226 grams) salted butter, softened
1/2 cup (60 grams) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground cardamom
1 3/4 cups (228 grams) all-purpose flour
1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar (for glaze)
1 tablespoon (15 ml) orange juice
1 tablespoon (15 ml) milk
Orange zest (optional, for decoration)
Directions
- If using whole cardamom pods, start by grinding them into a fine powder for the freshest flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Beat on low speed until just mixed, then increase to medium speed and continue beating until the mixture becomes creamy (about 30 seconds). Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add the flour and ground cardamom to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cookies tender.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Remove the chilled dough from the fridge. Place it between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape the dough into cookies, then place them on the lined baking sheet.
- Transfer the shaped cookies to the freezer for 10–15 minutes. This ensures they keep their shape during baking.
- Bake the cookies for 20–22 minutes, or until just lightly golden at the edges. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- While cookies cool, make the glaze: Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon orange juice, and 1 tablespoon milk until you get a smooth, pourable glaze.
- Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze and set them, glazed side up, on a wire rack. Sprinkle with orange zest if desired. Allow the glaze to set completely before serving or storing.
What to Serve With
These Cardamom Shortbread Cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a variety of treats. Serve them with a warm mug of chai or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. For a light dessert plate, arrange alongside fresh fruit or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re hosting a tea party, set them out with other dainty cookies or tea sandwiches for an elegant touch. They also make an excellent homemade gift when packaged in a pretty box!
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Use freshly ground cardamom for the most vibrant flavor—a mortar and pestle work wonders for this.
- If you only have unsalted butter, simply add an extra pinch of salt to the dough.
- Chill the dough thoroughly before cutting to keep your cookies from spreading while baking.
- Try substituting lemon zest or juice in the glaze for a fresh flavor twist.
- Do not overmix your dough after adding the flour; this preserves the cookies’ delicate texture.
- If your glaze seems too thick, add a drop more milk; if too thin, add a touch more powdered sugar.
- Avoid overbaking—the cookies should be just golden at the edges and pale everywhere else for a tender bite.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store your Cardamom Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days—they stay fresh and flavorful! If you want to make them ahead, the baked (and unglazed) cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place cooled cookies in a zip-top bag with parchment between layers. Thaw at room temperature, then glaze just before serving. If your cookies lose some of their crunch after storing, you can refresh them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–4 minutes, then cool before glazing.
FAQs
Can I use ground cardamom from a jar instead of fresh pods?
Absolutely! Ground cardamom from a jar is convenient and works well, though using freshly ground pods gives a more vibrant taste.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated until you’re ready to roll and bake.
Can I substitute the orange glaze for something else?
Of course—try lemon for a tangy twist or keep them plain for classic shortbread.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Definitely. Freeze the baked, unglazed cookies for up to 2 months. Add the glaze after thawing for best texture and appearance.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for just-set edges and a light golden color at the base. Shortbread should not brown too much; a pale cookie means a tender texture.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a reliable, flavorful, and easy cookie recipe, look no further than these Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Orange Glaze. Each bite brings buttery, crumbly bliss with a burst of spice and sunshine—perfect for treating yourself or sharing with loved ones. With simple steps, easy-to-find ingredients, and flexible options for storage or gifting, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to delight your senses and anyone lucky enough to try your baking? Gather your ingredients and let’s make some sweet magic! For more delicious inspiration, don’t forget to check out other cookie and teatime recipes on the blog. Happy baking!