Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread

Buttery shortbread cookies with a fresh hint of orange zest, dipped in rich dark chocolate and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful sweet-salty balance.

Yields: About 24 cookies

Prep time: 20 minutes

Chill time: 30 minutes

Bake time: 12-15 minutes

Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 large orange

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 150g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more), chopped

• Sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing until well combined.

3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Shape the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

5. Slice and bake: Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden.

6. Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

8. Dip the cookies: Dip half of each cookie into the melted dark chocolate, then place on parchment paper. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the dipped side.

9. Let the chocolate set: Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or in the fridge.

Tips:

• For a stronger orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract along with the zest.

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Enjoy your Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread!