As the festive season reaches its peak, many of us are searching for that perfect, heartfelt homemade gift. A new recipe from digital creator Cakeontherun offers a brilliant solution, combining two classic flavours into one incredibly simple bake.
A Festive Fusion of Favourite Flavours
This innovative recipe merges the rich, comforting taste of chocolate with the bright, zesty kick of orange, creating a shortbread that stands out among traditional mince pies and gingerbread. The best part? It requires just a handful of basic ingredients and can be cooked in either a conventional oven or a modern air fryer in a remarkably short time.
With many households using air fryers to save on energy costs this winter, this method is both timely and economical. The air fryer version cooks in a mere 15 minutes, while the oven method takes around 20 minutes after a brief chilling period.
Simple Steps to Sweet Success
The process is straightforward, making it ideal for bakers of all levels. You begin by mixing 170g of plain flour, 120g of butter (or dairy-free alternative), 60g of sugar, 2 teaspoons of orange essence, and 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips until a dough forms.
After shaping the dough into a rectangle, scoring it into eight fingers, and chilling it, you simply choose your cooking appliance. The result is a batch of sweet, buttery shortbread fingers infused with citrus aroma and studded with melty chocolate chunks.
An Inclusive and Thoughtful Treat
This recipe is notably versatile. It contains no eggs and can easily be made vegan by opting for plant-based butter and milk. This makes it a considerate option for friends and family with various dietary preferences during the holiday gatherings.
Presented on a festive plate or in a decorative tin, these chocolate orange shortbread fingers transform into a personal and much-appreciated Christmas gift. They offer a delicious alternative to shop-bought presents, carrying the warmth and care of a homemade creation.
So, if you're looking for a final festive bake that is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress, this air fryer-friendly chocolate orange shortbread from Cakeontherun is a must-try this holiday season.