Terra Americana

Shortbread always seemed a bit boring.  Then I went to England and everything changed.  Even store bought shortbread was a revelation. Whether you are a purest and like to keep things simple or always looking to add some pizazz, this easy recipe delights.  The combination of cranberry and orange is as pleasing to the palette as is is to the eye.  It also make a simple gift that is not short on charm.

• 1 cup fresh cranberries or 1/2 cup dried(dried are better is you have a SWEET tooth)
• 1 tbsp orange peel (I often use clementines)
  
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 3/4 cup butter, chilled
• 1 package Shortbread Mix
• 1 tsp Cranberry Orange Vinegar
• 2 tsp orange juice  
  

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Place nuts, butter and Shortbread Mix in a bowl. Blend using a pastry cutter or forks.  Add orange peel, cranberries, and Cranberry Orange Vinegar and orange juice. Combine mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place on a non-stick cookie sheet, about 1/2-inch apart. Keep dough in the refrigerator until needed.  Bake at 375 degrees for 12 to 15 min.   

Cool cookies for at least 1 hour before packaging.  One simple yet apealing idea is to use papermache cups or planters.  Line with waxed paper and fill with cookies.  If you are putting the container in a bag, put it in before you add the cookies.  Using a holiday ornament to bring the bag together is an innovative way to add decoration and drama.

What you've shared:

sounds great. my favorite has cranberries, hazelnuts and is drizzled with white chocolate. Starbucks brings it out at Christmas.
Posted by Kimberly

More gift Ideas with a cranberry theme: 

• A recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookie Gifts with a hint of Cranberry

• Chocolate Pumpkin Seed Bark, with craisins and a protein punch

• Cranberry Relish

• Cinnamon & cranberry crunch bars

Photo Credit: Julie T Cecchini