Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the spirit of the season into your kitchen, then you’ve landed on the right recipe! The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is not just a cookie—it’s a warm hug in dessert form. With its sweet and tart flavors, this cookie is perfect for any holiday gathering or even just a cozy night in with loved ones. The bright notes of orange paired with chewy cranberries create a festive harmony that will have everyone smiling.

What I love most about these cookies is how easy they are to make. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing for a family gathering, or simply indulging yourself after a long day, these cookies fit the bill beautifully. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe holds such a special place in my heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious cookies ready to enjoy in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These cranberry orange delights are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can whip up the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Fresh cookies whenever you want!
• Festively flavorful: The combination of cranberry and orange is not only delicious but also captures the essence of the holidays.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these cookies is easy because they require simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to bake these tasty treats!

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the Glaze

• 2 cups dried cranberries
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

One of the best parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Here are some fun ways to switch things up with your cookies:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor.
• Switch up the fruit: Try using dried cherries or blueberries instead of cranberries for a different fruity twist.
• Make them spiced: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cookies a warm spice profile perfect for winter.
• Decorate them differently: Instead of glaze, try rolling them in powdered sugar right after they come out of the oven for a snowy effect!

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, start by creaming together your softened butter with both sugars until it’s light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into your mixture, helping your cookies rise nicely. Plus, who doesn’t love that creamy texture?

Step 2: Add Egg and Flavorings

Next, beat in the egg along with the orange juice and zest. This adds moisture and that zesty flavor we adore. Make sure everything is mixed well—this ensures each cookie is bursting with that delightful taste.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender cookies!

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Now comes the fun part—folding in those beautiful dried cranberries! They add sweetness and chewiness that perfectly balances with the citrusy notes.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop (or two spoons), drop mounds of dough onto lined baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about eight minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them since every oven can be slightly different!

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your cookies cool down on racks, mix together powdered sugar with orange juice and zest until smooth for that lovely glaze. Drizzle it over cooled cookies once they’re ready—it adds an irresistible shine!

And there you have it—the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe! Enjoy these delightful treats and share them with friends and family during this wonderful season!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Baking cookies can be a delightful experience, especially when it comes to this festive recipe! Here are some tips to ensure your cranberry orange cookies turn out perfectly.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps in creaming the butter and sugars together more effectively, resulting in a light and fluffy cookie texture.

• Don’t skip the zest: Adding orange zest enhances the flavor profile of your cookies, making them aromatic and vibrant. It’s like capturing a little bit of sunshine!

• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading and ensures thicker cookies.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since these cookies bake quickly, keep an eye on them. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy bite.

• Store them properly: To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to layer parchment paper between them!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

These delightful cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting them beautifully can enhance their charm at any holiday gathering!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top right before serving adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Candied orange slices: Place a small piece of candied orange on top of each cookie for a festive look that complements the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm mug of rich hot cocoa is a classic pairing that balances the tartness of the cranberries with creamy sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pomegranate and kiwi provides a nice contrast to the richness of the cookies.
• Spiced tea: An aromatic blend of spiced tea complements the citrus notes in these cookies, making for a cozy treat.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to sweet cookies, making your dessert table well-rounded and inviting.

Embrace this recipe as part of your holiday traditions, and enjoy baking (and sharing) these lovely cranberry orange cookies with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful cranberry orange cookies are perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season. You can make them ahead of time, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand to share or enjoy yourself.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For optimal freshness, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Cookies can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Enjoy them fresh out of the oven!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe:

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried in the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

Using fresh cranberries is possible, but they are much more tart than dried cranberries. You may want to add a little extra sugar to balance the flavor if you choose this option.

How can I adjust the sweetness in the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

You can reduce the sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute that suits your dietary needs. Be mindful that this may alter the texture slightly.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

What can I use instead of butter for this cookie recipe?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute to maintain that rich flavor while making it dairy-free.

How long does it take for the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe to bake?

These cookies bake quickly, taking around 8 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until they are lightly golden around the edges.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies! They truly capture the essence of the holiday season with their bright flavors and festive colors. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging on your own, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!