St. Patrick's Day & Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread

St. Patrick's Day, celebrated annually on March 17th, is a time when many indulge in traditional Irish treats. One such delight is shortbread, a buttery biscuit that has become synonymous with comfort and festivity. But did you know that shortbread's origins trace back to Scotland, not Ireland?

A Brief History of Shortbread

Shortbread dates back to 12th-century Scotland. Originally, it was made from leftover bread dough that was dried out in the oven until it hardened into a rusk-like treat. Over time, yeast was replaced with butter, transforming it into the rich, crumbly biscuit we know today. This evolution is credited to Mary, Queen of Scots, in the 16th century, who was particularly fond of "petticoat tails," a thin, crisp version of shortbread flavored with caraway seeds.

While shortbread is Scottish in origin, its simplicity and deliciousness have made it popular worldwide, including in Ireland, where it's often enjoyed during festive occasions like St. Patrick's Day.

Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread Recipe

To add a zesty twist to this classic treat, we've crafted a Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread recipe that's both easy to follow and delightful to taste. Here's how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
Zest of 1 large orange
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
4 ounces (113g) dark chocolate, chopped

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and orange zest until light and fluffy.
Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
Shape and Chill: Divide the dough in half. Place each half on a piece of plastic wrap, shaping into logs approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Slice and Bake: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Unwrap the dough and slice into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place on prepared baking sheets and bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dip in Chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on parchment paper to set.
Enjoy and Share!

This Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread combines the traditional buttery flavor with a citrusy zest and rich chocolate coating, making it a perfect treat for St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these cookies are sure to bring a touch of sweetness to your festivities.

For a step-by-step visual guide, check out our video for Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread