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The holidays always beckon with a sweet charm, and nothing encapsulates that feeling quite like the aroma of freshly baked biscuits wafting through the kitchen. Just the thought of biting into an Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuit—crunchy on the outside and tender within—invokes a sense of warmth and cheer. These delightful treats are a breeze to whip up, requiring only five simple ingredients and minimal effort, making them the perfect last-minute addition to your festive gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

I discovered this recipe when I wanted a hassle-free yet impressive treat for a cookie exchange, and it quickly became a family favorite. Infused with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries and a hint of vanilla, these biscuits are not only a treat for the palate but also a visual delight. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, these biscuits will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, with an easy gluten-free option available, no one has to miss out on this festive indulgence!

Why Try Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits Today?

Simplicity: With just five ingredients, you can create a festive masterpiece without stress.
Deliciously Festive: The balance of buttery richness and tart cranberries brings holiday cheer in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at cookie exchanges or holiday gatherings, everyone will love these treats!
Versatile: Experiment with different dried fruits or flavored extracts to customize to your taste.
Effortless Baking: A straightforward approach means you can bake like a pro without the fuss.
Serve them with tea or coffee for an extra touch of warmth, and for a gluten-free option, try using a suitable flour blend!

Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits Ingredients

For the Biscuit Dough

Butter, softened (200g / 1¾ sticks) – Provides the rich, creamy base for the shortbread; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Caster sugar (100g / ½ cup) – Sweetens the biscuits while helping to maintain their tender texture; can swap with granulated sugar in a pinch.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor profile with warm notes; use almond extract for a different flavor twist.
Plain flour (280g / 2 cups + 2 tbsp) – Forms the structure of the biscuits; for a gluten-free option, use an appropriate gluten-free flour blend.
Dried cranberries (100g / ⅔ cup) – Adds sweetness and a tart pop of flavor; can substitute with raisins or other dried fruit.

Enjoy whipping up a batch of Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits that are sure to impress family and friends!

How to Make Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend softened butter, caster sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This forms the rich base for your biscuits.
Incorporate Flour: Gradually mix in the plain flour until the dough starts to come together. You can use your hands to form it into a cohesive ball. This binding stage is key!
Add Cranberries: Gently knead in the dried cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Roll and Cut: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out 3-inch rounds, re-rolling scraps as needed to make the most of your dough.
Chill Biscuits: Transfer the biscuit shapes to a lined baking tray and refrigerate them for 30 minutes. This step is crucial to keep their shape while baking!
Preheat Oven: While the biscuits chill, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (325°F) for convection ovens, ensuring the perfect bake.
Bake: Place the biscuits in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Look for firm edges and slightly soft centers; they’ll firm up beautifully as they cool.
Cool and Serve: As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle with a bit of extra caster sugar while still warm. Allow them to cool completely on the tray to maintain their texture.

Optional: For a delightful twist, serve these biscuits with a sprinkle of flaked sea salt on top!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on a classic!

Nutty Delight: Replace dried cranberries with chopped walnuts or pecans for a richer texture and subtle crunch. The addition of nuts adds depth and makes each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate Chip Heaven: Swap cranberries for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to create a deliciously indulgent variation. The combination of buttery shortbread and melting chocolate is simply irresistible!
Citrus Burst: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough for a refreshing twist that brightens the biscuit flavor. This zest enhances the overall aroma and gives the biscuits a zesty kick.
Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough to warm up the flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings. This small addition transforms your biscuits into a cozy seasonal treat that everyone will adore.
Fruit Medley: Experiment with dried fruits such as apricots or cherries instead of cranberries for a unique taste experience. The sweetness from other fruits can complement the buttery flavor beautifully.
Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile, giving a subtle nutty aroma that pairs well with the cranberries. This adds an elegant twist that will surprise your taste buds!
Savory Option: For a savory twist, try mixing in some finely grated cheese, such as parmesan, along with the cranberries. The combination of sweet and salty will tantalize your palate!
Gluten-Free Pleasure: Use a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking to transform this recipe for those needing to avoid gluten, ensuring everyone can join in the festivities!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits

Airtight Container: Store your biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and tasty.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the biscuits in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. They’ll maintain their delightful flavor!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply allow to thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.

Gift Ready: Wrap a dozen in festive packaging and give them as a thoughtful gift — these easy cranberry shortbread biscuits are always a hit!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply follow the recipe up to the point where the dough is formed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps maintain the dough’s quality while preventing any browning. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and chill on the baking tray for 30 minutes, then pop them in the oven. This way, you’ll have freshly baked biscuits with minimal effort, ready to impress your family and friends!

Expert Tips for Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits

Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the biscuits are properly chilled for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent them from spreading.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough biscuits. Mix just until combined for the best texture in your easy cranberry shortbread biscuits.
Monitor Baking Time: Watch your biscuits closely while baking; they shouldn’t turn golden on top. A slight softness in the center indicates they’re done.
Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality butter and vanilla enhances flavor, making your easy cranberry shortbread biscuits truly shine.
Gluten-Free Tip: If using a gluten-free flour blend, ensure it contains xanthan gum for better texture and binding.

What to Serve with Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits?

The warmth of the season calls for delightful pairings that enhance your biscuit experience.

Warm Tea: A cup of spiced chai or Earl Grey perfectly complements the buttery richness of the biscuits, making each bite a cozy moment.
Rich Hot Chocolate: Indulge your sweet tooth with creamy hot chocolate that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberries in the biscuits.
Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of creamy cheeses like Brie, which add a savory note to balance the sweet biscuits.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side elevates the dessert experience, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth effect.
Fruit Compote: Pair with a homemade cranberry or berry compote for an extra burst of fruity passion and visual appeal.
Sparkling Wine: Celebrate with a glass of bubbly, as the effervescence cleanses the palate, enhancing the festive feel of your gathering.
Coffee: A well-brewed cup of coffee, whether black or with cream, makes for a lovely pairing, heightening the biscuit’s flavors.

Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best dried cranberries for the biscuits?
Absolutely! Look for dried cranberries that are plump and juicy, preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened, to add a nice tang without excessive sugar. Avoid those that are too hard or have dark spots all over, as they may not rehydrate well in your biscuit dough.

How should I store leftover biscuits?
For sure! Store your Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you notice them becoming slightly soft, you can pop them back in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their crunch.

Can I freeze these biscuits?
Yes! To freeze your biscuits, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

What if my dough is too sticky?
Very common! If your dough feels overly sticky while working with it, add a little extra plain flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a manageable consistency. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it might alter the final texture of your biscuits.

Are these biscuits suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! For a gluten-free option, simply swap the plain flour for a compatible gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help bind the dough. Follow the instructions closely, just as you would with regular flour, and soon you’ll have delicious gluten-free Easy Cranberry Shortbread Biscuits to share!

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?
I don’t recommend it! Fresh cranberries are too tart and can add extra moisture to the dough, which might lead to a less desirable texture. If you’re craving that fresh cranberry flavor, consider mixing a small amount of fresh cranberries with dried ones for balance instead!