Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten up your holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is not just any cookie; it’s a cheerful bundle of joy that fills your kitchen with the sweet scent of oranges and tart cranberries. These cookies are perfect for sharing at family gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying on a cozy evening at home.

What makes these cookies truly special is their vibrant flavor combination. The zesty orange pairs beautifully with the chewy cranberries, creating a cookie that feels festive and indulgent without being overwhelming. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, so you can have them ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute baking.
• Family-Friendly: With their sweet and tangy flavor profile, these cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later baking.
• Festive Flavors: The combination of cranberry and orange captures the essence of the holiday season with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to get started on this delicious holiday treat!

For the Cookie Dough

• 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
• 2 cups dried cranberries

For the Icing

• 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

The great thing about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to customize your cookies:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Use Fresh Cranberries: If you can find them, fresh cranberries will add an extra burst of tartness.
• Swap Citrus: Try lemon or lime juice and zest if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dairy-free chocolate on top for a rich twist.

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by creaming together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cookies turn out soft and tender.

Step 2: Add Egg and Zest

Next, add in one egg along with two tablespoons of fresh orange juice and one teaspoon of orange zest. Mix well until everything is combined. The egg acts as a binder while adding moisture; plus, we want that citrusy zing throughout!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together two and a half cups of flour, half a teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Now it’s time for the star ingredient! Gently fold in two cups of dried cranberries into your dough. This adds delightful bursts of flavor that contrast beautifully with the sweetness.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for about eight minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can dry them out!

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

While your cookies cool down, whisk together one and a half cups of powdered sugar with three tablespoons of orange juice and half a teaspoon of orange zest until smooth. This icing adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, drizzle the icing over each one using a spoon or piping bag. Allow the icing to set before serving—if you can resist eating them all right away!

And there you have it—the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe awaits! Enjoy sharing these little bites of happiness with friends and family this holiday season!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Baking these delightful cookies can be a joyous experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll become a cookie pro in no time!

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures that your butter incorporates smoothly into the sugar, creating a light and fluffy texture that’s essential for perfect cookies.

• Don’t skip the zest: Adding fresh orange zest enhances the citrus flavor significantly. It brings out the brightness in the cookies and makes them truly festive!

• Chill your dough: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading. This results in thicker, chewier cookies that hold their shape beautifully.

• Adjust baking time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add chopped nuts or white chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to maintain the balance so that the cranberries and orange remain the stars of the show!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Serving these cookies can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine during the holiday season.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely finishing touch and makes these cookies look even more festive.
• Orange slices: Fresh slices or wedges can be placed alongside your cookies for a beautiful presentation that emphasizes their citrusy flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint can add a pop of color and a refreshing aroma, making your plate visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: This warm beverage pairs perfectly with cranberry orange cookies, offering a rich contrast to their sweet-tart flavor while keeping things cozy.
• Spiced tea: A steaming cup of spiced tea complements the citrus notes in the cookies and adds warmth to your holiday gatherings.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance the sweetness of your cookies while adding a savory element to your dessert table.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like pomegranates and kiwis provides a bright contrast to the richness of your cookies.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only bake delicious cranberry orange cookies but also present them beautifully for all to enjoy this holiday season! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful cookies are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, saving you stress during the busy holiday season. Whether you want to bake them fresh for a gathering or prepare them in advance for snacking, this recipe has got you covered.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
• They should stay delicious for up to one week!

Freezing

• Once cooled, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months – perfect for holiday treats!

Reheating

• If you prefer your cookies warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, just like when they were first baked!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these festive treats.

Can I substitute the butter in the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil as a substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.

How do I make sure my Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies turn out soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried in this cookie recipe?

While dried cranberries provide sweetness and chewiness that complements the orange flavor perfectly, using fresh cranberries is possible. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the sugar level, as fresh cranberries are quite tart!

How long do these cookies last after baking?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these delicious cookies can last about a week – perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe brings joy and warmth into your kitchen this holiday season! The delightful combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange makes these cookies truly special. Enjoy every moment of baking them and sharing with loved ones. Happy holidays, and don’t forget to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a cherished tradition!