Mary Berry Orange Shortbread Fingers Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re a fan of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread with a delightful citrus twist, then you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s orange shortbread fingers!

This recipe combines the classic, rich shortbread texture with the refreshing zing of fresh orange zest, creating the perfect balance of flavors. It’s incredibly easy to make and yields a treat that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet delicious afternoon snack or something to impress your guests at a tea party, these orange shortbread fingers are sure to hit the spot!

Mary Berry Orange Shortbread Fingers Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s delightful Orange Shortbread Fingers, you’ll need a blend of simple yet high-quality ingredients that come together to form the perfect balance of crisp, buttery shortbread with a zesty orange twist. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Butter – The heart of any good shortbread, butter brings a rich, indulgent flavor and a crumbly texture. Mary recommends using unsalted butter, which allows you to control the salt levels in the recipe and ensures a pure, unadulterated buttery taste. Room temperature butter will make it easier to blend and give you that melt-in-your-mouth effect when baked.

2. Caster Sugar – This fine sugar is ideal for shortbread because it dissolves quickly, ensuring a smooth dough without any grainy texture. It also contributes to the delicate sweetness of the shortbread, without overpowering the citrus notes.

3. Plain Flour – Plain or all-purpose flour is the base of the shortbread dough. This is what gives the shortbread its structure and crumbly texture. It’s important to measure it accurately and sift it to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth dough.

4. Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Cornflour adds to the tenderness of the shortbread, helping it break apart easily when bitten. It contributes to the light and crisp texture that defines good shortbread, preventing it from becoming too dense.

5. Orange Zest – The star ingredient of Mary’s shortbread fingers is the fresh orange zest. The citrus oils from the zest impart a vibrant, fragrant quality that elevates the buttery shortbread and balances out its richness. Make sure to use a fine grater to extract just the zest and not the bitter white pith underneath.

6. Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla adds an additional layer of flavor, enhancing the overall taste and rounding out the citrusy freshness of the orange zest. It’s not a dominant flavor, but it works in harmony with the other ingredients to deepen the shortbread’s flavor.

7. A Pinch of Salt – A small pinch of salt brings out the sweetness and counteracts any overpowering richness from the butter. It’s an essential ingredient in balancing the flavors.

Equipment Needed

While Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers use relatively simple ingredients, you’ll need a few key tools to bring it all together efficiently. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowl – A large mixing bowl is crucial for combining the butter, sugar, and dry ingredients. It should be big enough to allow room for mixing without the dough spilling over the sides.

2. Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – While you can mix the dough by hand, using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer will save time and effort. The beaters help to cream the butter and sugar together more effectively, ensuring that the dough is smooth and fluffy before adding the flour.

3. Sifter or Fine Mesh Sieve – Sifting your flour and cornflour together before incorporating them into the dough is a must. This helps prevent clumping and ensures a smoother dough, which is key for shortbread that’s delicate and light.

4. Rolling Pin – To roll out the dough to the right thickness, a rolling pin is essential. It’s important to roll the dough evenly, so it bakes uniformly and crisps up perfectly.

5. Sharp Knife – After baking, you’ll need a sharp knife to cut the shortbread into perfect finger-sized pieces. A serrated knife can work best for clean cuts, as it doesn’t crush the delicate biscuits.

6. Baking Tray – A flat, sturdy baking tray is necessary for even heat distribution. Line it with parchment paper to ensure the shortbread doesn’t stick, and to make cleanup easier.

7. Cooling Rack – After baking, a cooling rack helps to prevent the shortbread from becoming soggy. Allowing air to circulate around the biscuits ensures they cool evenly and maintain their crispness.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers

Making these Orange Shortbread Fingers is a straightforward process that requires a little bit of time and attention to detail, but the result is so worth it!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you to that perfectly crisp, buttery bite:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar – Start by placing your softened butter and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air into the mixture, creating the delicate texture shortbread is known for.

2. Add Orange Zest and Vanilla – Once your butter and sugar are well combined, add in the orange zest and vanilla extract. The zest will infuse the mixture with a fresh, citrusy aroma. Mix until it’s evenly distributed.

3. Sift in the Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour and cornflour. Slowly add this dry mix to the creamed butter mixture. Use a spatula or a mixer on a low speed to incorporate the flour until a dough starts to form. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain a tender texture.

4. Bring the Dough Together – When the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a couple of times. If the dough feels too soft or sticky, you can wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm it up.

5. Roll the Dough – Roll the dough out to about 1cm thick. Try to make the dough as even as possible to ensure all the biscuits bake at the same rate. You can either cut the dough into fingers using a sharp knife or use a cookie cutter for a different shape.

6. Bake – Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C for fan ovens), or 325°F. Place your shortbread fingers onto a lined baking tray, leaving some space between each piece. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as shortbread can quickly turn from golden to brown.

7. Cool – Once baked, allow the shortbread to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them firm up and prevents them from breaking apart while still warm.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Orange Shortbread Fingers come out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips from Mary Berry herself:

1. Use Room Temperature Butter – For the best results, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you begin. Cold butter will make it difficult to cream with the sugar, while too-soft butter can cause the dough to spread too much while baking.

2. Don’t Overwork the Dough – When combining the dry ingredients with the butter mixture, be gentle. Overworking the dough can cause it to become tough, which is the opposite of what you want in a shortbread.

3. Chill the Dough If Necessary – If the dough feels too soft and difficult to work with, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This will make it firmer and easier to roll out.

4. Watch the Oven – Shortbread bakes relatively quickly, so be sure to check on it towards the end of the suggested baking time. If the edges turn golden, it’s time to take them out, as they’ll continue to cook slightly from residual heat once removed from the oven.

5. Experiment with Other Flavors – If you want to switch things up, try replacing the orange zest with lemon zest or even adding a pinch of ground cinnamon for a warmer, spiced variation.

Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers are a wonderful balance of buttery goodness and bright citrus flavor, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a tea party, enjoying them as an afternoon snack, or giving them as a homemade gift, these shortbread fingers are sure to impress.

With the right technique and a few expert tips, you’ll be able to master the art of shortbread and create a batch that’s perfectly crisp, light, and packed with flavor. Happy baking!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers

Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers are a delicious treat that combine the buttery richness of traditional shortbread with the vibrant citrus zing of orange. This versatile recipe can be customized in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and preferences. If you’re looking to add some fun twists or elevate the flavor profile, here are some easy variations you can try:

1. Chocolate-Dipped Orange Shortbread Fingers:
For those who love the combination of citrus and chocolate, dip the baked orange shortbread fingers into melted dark or milk chocolate. This adds an indulgent layer of richness and smoothness to the cookies, complementing the slight tang of the orange zest. After dipping, allow the chocolate to harden before serving, creating a glossy finish that looks as impressive as it tastes.

2. Add Spices for Warmth:
You can introduce a cozy, spiced element to the orange shortbread by adding a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger to the dough. These spices work well with the citrus flavor, creating a warm and comforting aroma. The cinnamon especially enhances the overall depth of flavor, making them perfect for autumn or winter baking.

3. Orange and Almond Shortbread:
Almonds and oranges are a classic pairing, so consider adding ground almonds to the dough for a nutty twist. The almonds contribute a subtle, rich flavor and create a slightly firmer texture, which contrasts beautifully with the melt-in-your-mouth shortbread. You could also decorate the top of the shortbread fingers with flaked almonds for extra crunch and visual appeal.

4. Incorporate Other Citrus Fruits:
While the recipe calls for oranges, you can easily swap in other citrus fruits for a unique twist. Lemon or lime zest can replace the orange zest, or you could even use a mix of citrus zests to create a more complex citrus flavor. Grapefruit zest also pairs wonderfully with shortbread, adding a slightly tangy edge that brightens the sweetness of the cookie.

5. Infused Orange Shortbread:
For a more intense citrus flavor, you can infuse the dough with orange juice in addition to the zest. This will add a touch of moisture and create a more pronounced citrus profile. To prevent the dough from becoming too sticky, reduce the amount of butter slightly to balance the extra liquid.

6.

Orange Shortbread with a Glaze:
Instead of dipping your shortbread in chocolate, why not glaze the top with an orange icing?

Mix powdered sugar with fresh orange juice to create a simple, tangy glaze that adds a burst of sweetness to the crisp cookie. You can drizzle this glaze over the cooled shortbread for a glossy finish or dip each finger into the glaze for a more uniform coating.

These variations keep the core elements of Mary Berry’s recipe intact, while offering fresh and exciting options for flavor exploration.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers, like most baked goods, taste best when fresh. However, they can be stored properly to maintain their flavor and texture for several days. If you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to ensure they stay as delicious as when they were first baked:

1. Cool Completely Before Storing:
It’s essential to let your shortbread fingers cool completely before storing them. This helps to prevent any moisture from being trapped inside the container, which could cause the cookies to become soft or soggy. Placing them on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes after baking is a good practice.

2. Use an Airtight Container:
To preserve the crispness and freshness of the shortbread, store them in an airtight container. This prevents air from getting in, which could lead to staleness. A tin, plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, or a glass jar with a sealing lid all work well. For added protection, consider lining the container with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking together.

3. Store in a Cool, Dry Place:
Place the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. A kitchen pantry or cupboard is ideal. Avoid storing the cookies in the fridge, as this could make them soft and lose their signature crumbly texture.

4. Layering Shortbread:
If you have a large batch of shortbread fingers, you can stack them inside the container. However, make sure to place a layer of parchment paper between each row of cookies to prevent them from sticking together or breaking. This also helps keep them from getting squished.

5. Freezing for Longer Storage:
If you want to keep your orange shortbread fingers for a longer period, you can freeze them. To do so, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or an airtight container. When you want to enjoy a fresh shortbread, simply pull them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This preserves the texture and taste almost perfectly.

Following these best practices will help you extend the life of your leftover shortbread and ensure they’re still a delightful treat when you reach for them days later.

What Goes Well With Orange Shortbread Fingers

Orange Shortbread Fingers are wonderfully flavorful on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of beverages and accompaniments to enhance your enjoyment. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat to pair with tea or something to balance the rich, buttery flavor of the shortbread, here are some ideas for what goes well with them:

1. Tea:
Shortbread and tea are a match made in heaven, and the zesty orange flavor of the cookies complements a variety of teas beautifully. A classic Earl Grey tea, with its hint of bergamot, is a particularly fantastic pairing, as the citrus notes from both the tea and the shortbread will echo each other. For a lighter option, try a green tea or white tea that won’t overpower the delicate flavor of the cookies. Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint also provide a soothing contrast to the richness of the shortbread.

2. Coffee:
If you prefer coffee over tea, a well-brewed espresso or a cup of black coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the orange shortbread. The bitterness of the coffee balances the buttery texture of the shortbread, creating a satisfying combination. For a more indulgent treat, a cappuccino or latte with frothed milk provides a creamy contrast that enhances the citrusy flavors of the cookies.

3. Fresh Fruit:
The bright orange flavor of the shortbread pairs beautifully with fresh, juicy fruits. Try serving the cookies alongside slices of tangy grapefruit, orange segments, or berries like strawberries and raspberries. The natural acidity and juiciness of the fruit balance out the richness of the shortbread, providing a refreshing contrast.

4. Whipped Cream or Clotted Cream:
For an extra luxurious experience, serve the shortbread with a dollop of whipped cream or clotted cream on the side. The richness of the cream enhances the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the shortbread and adds a touch of decadence. You can even flavor the whipped cream with a bit of orange zest to tie everything together.

5. Ice Cream:
For a dessert-worthy combination, pair your orange shortbread with a scoop of creamy vanilla, chocolate, or even orange sorbet. The cold, creamy ice cream offers a pleasant contrast to the crispness of the cookies, and the flavors of citrus work wonderfully together.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers are a delightful twist on a classic treat. The balance of rich butteriness and zesty citrus creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations like adding chocolate, nuts, or different citrus fruits, this simple yet elegant treat can be easily tailored to suit your tastes.

Proper storage ensures that you can enjoy the cookies for several days, while pairing them with your favorite beverages or accompaniments enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re sipping tea with friends, enjoying them as a light afternoon snack, or serving them as part of a larger dessert spread, these shortbread fingers are sure to be a hit. With their versatility, flavor, and ease of preparation, Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers remain a timeless favorite that never disappoints.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers?

To make Mary Berry’s orange shortbread fingers, you will need butter, caster sugar, plain flour, cornflour, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. Optionally, you can also use a little orange juice for extra flavor.

How Do I Make The Dough For Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers?

To make the dough, beat together butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the orange zest, followed by the sifted flour, cornflour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the dough comes together, then gently knead it into a smooth ball.

Can I Substitute The Butter In Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative, but the texture and flavor might vary slightly. For a dairy-free version, ensure you’re using a suitable butter replacement.

How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers?

Mary Berry’s orange shortbread fingers should be baked in a preheated oven at 160°C (140°C for fan ovens) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are pale golden brown at the edges.

Can I Freeze The Dough For Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Simply wrap it tightly in cling film and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to thaw before rolling and cutting it into fingers.

How Do I Shape The Shortbread Fingers?

After chilling the dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1cm thickness. Use a sharp knife or a cookie cutter to cut the dough into fingers or desired shapes. You can also trim the edges with a ruler for perfect edges.

How Do I Add A Sugar Coating To Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers?

Once baked and still warm, sprinkle the shortbread fingers with caster sugar to give them a sweet, crunchy finish. You can also add a little extra orange zest on top for added flavor.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers Without The Orange Zest?

Yes, you can omit the orange zest if you prefer a more traditional shortbread flavor, or if you’re looking for a plain shortbread variation. However, the orange zest adds a lovely citrusy aroma and flavor.

What Can I Do If My Shortbread Dough Is Too Crumbly?

If your dough is too crumbly, try adding a small amount of cold water or orange juice, a teaspoon at a time, until it comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as it can affect the texture of the shortbread.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Orange Shortbread Fingers In Advance?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s orange shortbread fingers ahead of time. Store the baked shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.