Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread: 7 Irresistible Recipes

Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread brings a warm, comforting flavor that is perfect for any festive occasion. These delightful cookies, infused with orange zest and the rich nuttiness of pecans, create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes these cookies an instant favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread

This Orange Pecan Shortbread Recipe is a feast for the senses! Here are a few reasons you’ll adore these cookies:

• Rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth.
• Sweet and spicy flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Easy to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile for gifting or holiday treats.
• Nutty orange spice biscuits are a festive addition to any dessert table.
• Great for meal prepping and freezing for later enjoyment.

With this easy Orange Pecan Shortbread recipe, you’ll impress your friends and family effortlessly. Plus, it fits beautifully within a vegetarian diet, making it a delightful choice for everyone!

Ingredients for Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread

Gather these items:

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature)
• ½ cup Granulated Sugar
• ½ cup Brown Sugar
• 2 cups All-purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free flour)
• 1 cup Pecan Nuts (Can substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds)
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon Cloves
• 1 tablespoon Orange Zest
• 1 jar Jam (Use your favorite flavor like raspberry or orange marmalade)

How to Make Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. Step 2: Gradually add brown sugar and continue mixing.
3. Step 3: Sift in flour, cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest. Mix until just combined to form a soft dough.
4. Step 4: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Step 6: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness.
7. Step 7: Cut shapes from the dough and transfer to baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
8. Step 8: Spoon a thin layer of jam onto the center of each cookie without covering the edges.
9. Step 9: Bake the cookies for about 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Step 10: Remove from the oven and cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Pro Tips for the Best Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread

Keep these in mind:

• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• These cookies can be made ahead and frozen for later enjoyment.
• Experiment with different jam flavors to add a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread

Here are some delightful serving ideas:

• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Serve on a dessert platter with other holiday cookies.
• Wrap individually for unique orange pecan cookies with spices gifts.

How to Store and Reheat Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread

For best results, store your cookies in an airtight container. They can last up to a week at room temperature. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread

What’s the secret to perfect Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread?

The secret lies in creaming the butter and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air, which results in a lighter texture. Using fresh ingredients, especially the orange zest, enhances the cookie’s flavor, making them irresistible.

Can I make Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Just slice and bake when you’re ready!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread?

Be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies. Also, ensure your butter is at room temperature for even mixing.

Variations of Orange Pecan Spice Shortbread You Can Try

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations:

• Substitute pecans with wild sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
• Incorporate chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
• Use lemon zest instead of orange for a refreshing flavor change.

With these variations, you can enjoy these delightful treats in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion!

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in other baking ideas, you might enjoy our Persian Chicken Recipe or Fried Meatballs Romanian Chiftele. Don’t forget to explore Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo for a delightful meal!

For more information on the health benefits of pecans, you can visit Healthline.

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