
If you’re a fan of the rich, buttery goodness of shortbread combined with the indulgent taste of chocolate, you’re in for a treat! Learn how to make the easiest Chocolate Shortbread Cookies. These delightful cookies achieve that perfect balance between a tender crumb and a deep cocoa flavor, making them an irresistible addition to your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love These Cravable Cookies
- Simple Ingredients . Made with pantry staples you probably already have.
- Easy to Make . Minimal steps and no complicated techniques.
- Versatile . Perfect for holidays, gifting, or an everyday treat.
- Delicious . Rich chocolate flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
With these Chocolate Shortbread Cookies, you’ve got a go-to recipe that’s both impressive and straightforward. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this dessert recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
What Do Chocolate Shortbread Cookies Taste Like?
Chocolate shortbread cookies are a delightful twist on the classic shortbread. They combine the simplicity and buttery richness of traditional shortbread with the deep, satisfying taste of cocoa.
The result is a cookie that’s not overly sweet but packed with flavor, offering a sophisticated treat that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Why Are They Called Shortbread Cookies?
Shortbread cookies derive their name from the term “short,” which is a traditional baking term that refers to a crumbly texture.
In baking, “short” describes pastries and biscuits that are tender and break easily due to a high proportion of fat to flour. The “bread” part of the name harks back to the cookie’s origins and historical naming conventions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Unsalted Butter -Softened at room temperature.
- Powdered Sugar -For a smooth sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract -Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour -Provides structure.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder -Gives a rich chocolate taste.
- Salt - Balances the sweetness.
How To Make Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
- Cream Butter and Sugar . In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla . Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sift Dry Ingredients . In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt.
- Mix Together . Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and Wrap . Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate . Chill the dough logs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Set the Oven . Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice the Cookies . Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds with a sharp knife.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet . Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
- Bake . Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set. The cookies will be soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool . Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips And Tricks
Making the perfect Chocolate Shortbread Cookies is easy with these helpful tips:
- Use Quality Butter . The flavor of the butter shines through in shortbread, so choose a good quality unsalted butter.
- Don’t Overmix . Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill Thoroughly . Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the shape of the cookies during baking.
- Uniform Slices . Use a sharp knife and cut evenly to ensure all cookies bake at the same rate.
- Watch the Oven . Shortbread can go from perfect to overbaked quickly. Remove them when they are just set.
Variations
Experiment with these variations to customize your Chocolate Shortbread Cookies:
- Espresso - Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha flavor.
- Nutty - Mix in finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts for added crunch.
- Spiced - Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a subtle kick.
- Orange Zest- Incorporate grated orange zest for a citrusy contrast to the chocolate.
What To Enjoy With Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
Chocolate shortbread cookies are a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your indulgence to a whole new level.
Here are some delicious suggestions to enhance your experience with these rich and buttery delights:
- Coffee or Espresso - The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies.
- Tea - Enjoy with a cup of Earl Grey or peppermint tea.
- Milk - A classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Dessert Wine - Serve with a sweet dessert wine for an elegant touch.
How Long Do They Last?
At room temperature, these cookies remain fresh for up to two weeks if kept in an airtight container. This prevents them from absorbing moisture or odors from the environment, which can affect their taste and texture.
If you wish to extend their freshness beyond two weeks, refrigerating the cookies is an effective option. When placed in the refrigerator, chocolate shortbread cookies can last for up to three weeks .
Can You Freeze Them?
For long-term storage, freezing is an excellent method to preserve chocolate shortbread cookies for up to three months.
To freeze them properly, place the cookies in freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
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Chocolate Shortbread Cookies | Easy Shortbread Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter , softened
- ▢ 1/3 cup Powdered Sugar
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ▢ 3/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 3 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar . In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla . Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sift Dry Ingredients . In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt.
- Mix Together . Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and Wrap . Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate . Chill the dough logs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Set the Oven . Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice the Cookies . Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds with a sharp knife.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet . Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
- Bake . Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set. The cookies will be soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool . Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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Satisfy your sweet tooth with our delectable Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies recipe. These delightful treats combine the buttery richness of shortbread cookies with a burst of tangy raspberry jam in every bite. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving something sweet, these cookies are a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Fruit-Flavored Dessert
- Irresistible Flavor . The combination of buttery cookie dough and sweet-tart raspberry jam creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make . Impress your family and friends with this beautiful dessert that is surprisingly easy to whip up. They make a great addition to any cookie platter.
- Versatile . Customize your thumbprint cookies with different fruit jams or preserves to suit your taste preferences. Apricot, strawberry, or blackberry are excellent alternatives to raspberry.
With their delightful crumbly texture and vibrant raspberry centers, these thumbprint cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Why Are They Called Thumbprint Cookies?
Thumbprint cookies are called “thumbprint cookies” because of the distinctive method used to create a well or indentation in the center of each cookie. Typically, a thumb or the back of a spoon is gently pressed into the dough to make this signature thumbprint shape.
Why Do My Thumbprint Cookies Spread?
Ensuring that your thumbprint cookies maintain their shape and don’t overspread during baking requires proper preparation and careful steps. Here are some things to take into consideration before getting started:
- Chilled Dough . After mixing the cookie dough, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilled dough spreads less while baking, resulting in cookies with a better shape.
- Create Thumbprints Carefully . Use your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Be gentle to avoid cracking the dough.
- Preheat Your Oven . Make sure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature before placing the cookies inside. This helps them set quickly and hold their shape.
Why Is My Thumbprint Cookie Dough Crumbly?
If your thumbprint cookie dough is crumbly, there are several possible reasons for this issue. Here are some common factors and solutions to help you achieve the ideal cookie dough consistency:
- Dry Ingredients Ratio . One of the most common reasons for crumbly cookie dough is an incorrect ratio of dry ingredients, particularly flour. If you added too much flour, the dough can become dry and crumbly. Solution - To fix this, try adding a small amount of liquid (such as milk or water) to the dough, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Overmixing . Overmixing the cookie dough can lead to a crumbly texture. Excessive mixing can develop gluten, which can result in a dry and tough cookie. Solution - Mix the dough only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing should be avoided. Once the ingredients are integrated, stop mixing.
- Insufficient Binding Agent . The egg or egg yolk in the dough acts as a binding agent. If you didn’t use enough egg or egg yolk, the dough can be crumbly. Solution . Check the recipe and make sure you added the correct amount of eggs or egg yolks. If needed, add an extra yolk or a small amount of beaten egg to improve the dough’s consistency.
- Overworking the Dough . If you knead or handle the dough excessively, it can become crumbly. Thumbprint cookies are typically delicate and should not be overworked. Solution - Handle the dough gently when shaping the cookies. Avoid kneading or pressing it too much.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Butter - Unsalted butter is the base of these cookies, providing richness and flavor.
- Granulated Sugar - Adds sweetness to the cookie dough.
- Egg Yolk - The yolk contributes to the tender texture of the cookies.
- Vanilla Extract - Infuses a delightful vanilla aroma and flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour - The main dry ingredient for the cookie dough.
- Salt - Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Raspberry Jam - Fills the thumbprints with fruity goodness.
- Powdered Sugar - For a dusting of sweetness on top.
How To Make Thumbprint Cookies
- Prepare the Cookie Dough . Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
- Chill the Dough . Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
- Shape and Fill . Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Make an indentation in each cookie with your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon. Fill each indentation with raspberry jam.
- Bake to Perfection . Bake the cookies in a preheated oven until they’re golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy . Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips And Tricks
Creating the perfect Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies can be a delightful baking experience. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make these delicious cookies with ease and precision:
- Softened Butter . Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature before using it in the cookie dough. This makes it easier to cream with sugar and results in a smoother dough.
- Chill the Dough . After mixing the cookie dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilled dough is less likely to spread during baking, helping your cookies maintain their shape.
- Consistent Cookie Sizes . Keep the cookie sizes consistent to ensure even baking. Using a cookie scoop can help with this.
Variations
Thumbprint cookies are incredibly versatile, and you can get creative with various flavor combinations and fillings. Here are some delightful variations to try:
- Strawberry- Swap out the raspberry jam for strawberry jam or preserves for a different fruity twist.
- Chocolate- Fill the thumbprints with chocolate ganache or Nutella for a rich and indulgent treat.
- Cherry -Use cherry jam or cherry preserves for a sweet and vibrant filling.
- Cream Cheese and Fruit- Combine cream cheese with your choice of fruit preserves for a creamy and fruity center.
What To Enjoy With Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance your serving by pairing them with:
- Tea or Coffee - Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat.
- Ice Cream - Serve Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Milk - Dunking these cookies in a glass of cold milk is a classic choice.
Should You Refrigerate Thumbprint Cookies?
Thumbprint cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days, usually up to a week, without the need for refrigeration.
If your thumbprint cookies have a highly perishable filling, such as fresh fruit or dairy-based fillings like cream cheese or custard, it’s advisable to refrigerate them to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Make sure they’re well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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Thumbprint Cookies Recipe | Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
- ▢ 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter , softened
- ▢ 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- ▢ 1 Egg Yolk
- ▢ 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ▢ 1 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Salt
- ▢ 1/3 cup Raspberry Preserves
- ▢ Powdered Sugar , for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough . Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
- Chill the Dough . Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
- Shape and Fill . Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Make an indentation in each cookie with your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon. Fill each indentation with raspberry jam.
- Bake to Perfection . Bake the cookies in a preheated oven until they’re golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy . Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Chocolate Shortbread Cookies | Easy Shortbread Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter softened
- 1/3 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- 3 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar . In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla . Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sift Dry Ingredients . In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt.
- Mix Together . Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and Wrap . Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate . Chill the dough logs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Set the Oven . Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice the Cookies . Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds with a sharp knife.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet . Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
- Bake . Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set. The cookies will be soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool . Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Chocolate Shortbread Cookies | Easy Shortbread Cookie Recipe https://twosleevers.com/chocolate-shortbread-cookies/

If you love the sweet citrusy flavor of fresh oranges combined with soft, pillowy dough, these homemade Orange Rolls will be your new favorite treat. Similar to cinnamon rolls but with a bright and zesty twist, these rolls are filled with a buttery orange-sugar mixture and topped with a luscious orange glaze. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an indulgent dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Brilliant Breakfast
- Soft and fluffy texture . These rolls are light, tender, and melt in your mouth.
- Bursting with citrus flavor . Fresh orange zest and juice make every bite bright and refreshing.
- Perfect for any occasion . Great for holiday mornings, special breakfasts, or weekend baking.
- Make-ahead friendly . Prepare the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a special brunch centerpiece, orange rolls are a sweet, citrusy delight that brings joy with every bite.
What Do Orange Rolls Taste Like?
Yes, Orange Rolls are absolutely delicious and a wonderful alternative to classic cinnamon rolls. They have a delicate balance of sweet and citrusy flavors that complement the buttery dough.
The filling has just the right amount of orange zest to give a refreshing pop of flavor, and the glaze adds a smooth, sweet finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For The Dough
- All-Purpose Flour - Provides the structure and foundation of the rolls, giving them a soft but sturdy texture.
- Active Dry Yeast - Leavens the dough, allowing it to rise and become fluffy.
- Warm Milk - Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist and tender.
- Granulated Sugar - Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough and helps feed the yeast for better rising.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Unsalted Butter - Adds richness, moisture, and tenderness to the dough.
- Egg - Binds the ingredients together and contributes to a soft, slightly rich texture.
Filling
- Unsalted Butter - Ensures a smooth, rich filling that melts into the dough while baking.
- Granulated Sugar - Sweetens the filling, complementing the bright citrus flavor.
- Orange Zest - Infuses the rolls with a bold, fresh orange flavor.
- Orange Juice - Adds natural citrusy brightness and moisture to the filling.
For The Glaze
- Powdered Sugar - Creates a smooth, sweet glaze that perfectly coats the warm rolls.
- Orange Juice - Provides the perfect amount of tangy citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Extract - Enhances the glaze with a warm, subtle depth of flavor.
How To Make Orange Rolls
- Prepare the Dough . In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, salt, melted butter, and egg. Mix until combined. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Make the Orange Filling . In a small bowl, mix softened butter, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined.
- Shape the Rolls . Roll out the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the orange filling evenly over the dough. Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 equal pieces. Place rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake the Orange Rolls . Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Make the Orange Glaze . Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Tips And Tricks
Orange rolls are a delightful citrusy twist on classic sweet rolls, and with a few expert tips, you can ensure they turn out soft, flavorful, and perfectly glazed every time:
- Use fresh orange zest and juice for the best citrus flavor. Bottled juice won’t have the same brightness.
- Knead the dough properly to ensure soft and fluffy rolls. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Let the dough rise until doubled to achieve the best texture. Rushing the process may result in dense rolls.
- Slice the rolls evenly to ensure they bake at the same rate.
- Pour the glaze while warm so it soaks into the rolls slightly for extra moisture.
Variations
Orange rolls are already a delicious treat, but there are many ways to customize them to fit your preferences. Whether you want to add more citrus, incorporate different spices, or create a richer filling, here are some creative variations to try:
- Orange Cream Cheese Frosting - Swap the glaze for a creamy orange cream cheese icing.
- Nutty - Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Cinnamon - Sprinkle cinnamon into the filling for a warm, spiced twist.
- Chocolate - Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet citrus-chocolate combo.
What To Enjoy With Orange Rolls
Orange rolls are a sweet, citrusy delight that pair well with a variety of sides and beverages. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast , brunch, or dessert, here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Fresh fruit - A side of berries or citrus slices complements the bright orange flavor.
- Scrambled eggs - A savory contrast to balance the sweetness.
- Coffee or tea - A warm drink enhances the comforting flavors of the rolls.
- Yogurt and granola - Adds protein and crunch to complete your breakfast.
How Long Do They Last?
Orange rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.
If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but be sure to warm them slightly before serving to restore their soft, fluffy texture.
Can You Freeze Them?
For extended storage, orange rolls freeze well—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy them, thaw the rolls at room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Adding a fresh drizzle of glaze after reheating can help bring back their just-baked flavor and moisture.
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Orange Rolls | Homemade Orange Breakfast Roll Recipe
Ingredients
For The Dough
- ▢ 3 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 2 1/4 tsp Active Dry Yeast
- ▢ 1 cup Warm Milk , 105-110F
- ▢ 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- ▢ 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter , melted and cooled
- ▢ 1 Egg
Filling
- ▢ 1/3 cup Unsalted Butter , softened
- ▢ 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- ▢ 2 tbsp Orange Zest
- ▢ 3 tbsp Orange Juice
Glaze
- ▢ 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
- ▢ 4 tbsp Orange Juice
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough . In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, salt, melted butter, and egg. Mix until combined. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Make the Orange Filling . In a small bowl, mix softened butter, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined.
- Shape the Rolls . Roll out the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the orange filling evenly over the dough. Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 equal pieces. Place rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake the Orange Rolls . Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Make the Orange Glaze . Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.