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### **Instructions:**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Cardamom Shortbread Dough**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the vanilla extract, ground cardamom, and salt, and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition, until a soft dough forms.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Use a cookie cutter (you can use a round or shaped cutter) to cut out your shortbread cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Refrigerate the cut-out cookies for about 10-15 minutes to help them hold their shape during baking.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as baking time may vary depending on your oven.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Orange Glaze**
1. While the cookies are baking, make the orange glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl. Add more juice if you prefer a thinner glaze, or add extra powdered sugar to make it thicker.
2. Once the cookies have cooled completely on a wire rack, drizzle the orange glaze over each cookie using a spoon or a small piping bag for more precision.
#### **Step 3: Let the Glaze Set**
1. Allow the glaze to set on the cookies for about 10-15 minutes before serving or packaging them up.
2. Enjoy your flavorful cardamom shortbread cookies with a delightful citrus kick!
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### **Tips for Success:**
– **Chill the dough**: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking and makes the dough easier to work with.
– **Use freshly ground cardamom**: For the best flavor, try using freshly ground cardamom instead of pre-ground. The freshness of the spice can make a noticeable difference in the overall taste.
– **Glaze variation**: For a thicker glaze, use less orange juice. If you prefer a more subtle citrus flavor, reduce the amount of zest or use just a drizzle of glaze.
– **Make it festive**: These cookies are perfect for any occasion, so feel free to decorate them with colored sugar, sprinkles, or other toppings to make them extra special for holidays or parties.
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### **Serving and Storing:**
– **Serve with tea or coffee**: These cardamom shortbread cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for an afternoon snack or a cozy treat after dinner.
– **Store properly**: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, you can also freeze them for up to three months before glazing. Simply glaze them after thawing.
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### **Conclusion:**
Cardamom shortbread cookies with an orange glaze bring a unique and delightful twist to the classic shortbread recipe. With the warm, fragrant spices of cardamom and the bright, tangy sweetness of orange, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a special event or enjoying them as a personal indulgence, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth with elegance and flavor!
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