Ingredients:
– 4 ounces unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
– Sparkling sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a stand mixer bowl with the paddle attachment or using a handheld electric mixer in a large bowl, beat the softened butter, orange zest, and sugar on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy. Incorporate the vanilla. Add the egg and beat until well combined. Gradually add the flour and dried cranberries, mixing until just combined. Ensure the dough becomes firm.
2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour onto a clean work surface. Transfer the cookie dough and gently knead it for about 30 seconds. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Optionally, roll each log in turbinado sugar. Wrap both logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours or up to 5 days.
3. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat baking mat.
4. Unwrap the chilled dough and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the dough logs into 1/4-inch rounds.
5. Arrange the cookies 1/2 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until they turn lightly golden.
6. Once baked, remove from the oven and transfer the baking sheet to a cooling rack. Let the cookies cool for at least 15 minutes before proceeding.
7. While the cookies cool, prepare the chocolate coating. Melt the chopped chocolate using a double boiler or microwave method in short 15-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth.
8. Dip each cookie halfway into the melted chocolate and place it back on the lined baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle the wet chocolate with turbinado sugar and additional orange zest.
9. Allow the chocolate to set; for faster setting, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator.
10. Once set, serve these delightful Dark Chocolate Cranberry Orange cookies and relish their incredible flavors, perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy!