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Cranberry White Chocolate Shortbread Bars Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 125 reviews
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 30 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cranberry White Chocolate Shortbread is a delightful, buttery cookie featuring dried cranberries and a luscious drizzle of melted white chocolate. This recipe combines the rich flavor of classic shortbread with the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of white chocolate, creating a perfect treat for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup dried cranberries (Craisins)

Topping

  • ¾ cup melted white chocolate chips
  • White sanding sugar for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a 15×10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until combined. Then fold in the dried cranberries evenly throughout the dough.
  3. Shape the dough: Drop the dough into the center of the prepared baking sheet. Using the heels of your hands, press the dough into a large rectangle, aiming for even thickness approximately 12×10 inches and ¼-inch thick to ensure uniform baking.
  4. Bake the shortbread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges start to lightly brown. This signals the cookies are perfectly baked.
  5. Cut and decorate: Remove the baked shortbread from the oven and immediately cut into strips using a pizza cutter or sharp knife while still warm. Allow the cut pieces to cool completely on the baking sheet.
  6. Drizzle and garnish: Once cooled, drizzle the shortbread strips with melted white chocolate chips. Sprinkle with white sanding sugar for a sparkly, festive finish. Let the chocolate set before serving. ENJOY!

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Press the dough evenly to prevent uneven baking and texture.
  • Cutting the shortbread while warm prevents cracking.
  • Use a pizza cutter for clean and straight edges.
  • White sanding sugar is optional but adds a beautiful decorative touch.
  • Store shortbread in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 35mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 24mg