Every holiday season, I find myself reminiscing about the sweet aroma of baking cookies wafting through the air, filling hearts with warmth and joy. This year, I’m excited to share my Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe, a delightful treat that perfectly marries the tartness of cranberries with the bright zest of fresh oranges. With just 30 minutes of preparation, you can whip up a batch of these soft, chewy cookies that are sure to steal the spotlight at any holiday gathering. Plus, they make for an excellent make-ahead option—ideal for those busy festive days when you still want to impress. Ready to spread some holiday cheer with a sprinkle of sugar? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe together!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy the delightful taste of these festive cookies without long hours in the kitchen.
Unique Flavor Twist: The tart cranberries combined with the bright orange zest create a flavor explosion that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Soft and Chewy Texture: You’ll love the soft, chewy interior and lightly crisp edges that make each bite a pure delight.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies are great for advancing your holiday baking; prepare the dough in advance or freeze for easy baking later.
Perfect for gatherings, they are sure to impress, just like my Cheesy Hamburger Potato or Cozy Broccoli Cheddar recipes!
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake these holiday delights!
For the Dough
- Flour – Essential for structure, feel free to use a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a gluten-free option.
- Butter – Adds richness; if needed, margarine or solid coconut oil can substitute, but the flavor may vary.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and aids in spreading; try coconut sugar for a less processed alternative.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and flavor, providing that chewier texture we love; can substitute with white sugar and molasses.
- Egg – Binds everything together and assists in rising; no substitutes recommended for this cookie.
- Dried Cranberries – Introduces tartness and chewiness; use sweetened ones for balance and feel free to swap with similar dried fruits.
- Orange Juice & Zest – Infuses a bright citrus flavor; if you’re in a pinch, bottled juice works, or substitute with lemon zest for a twist.
- Baking Soda – A key leavening agent for the perfect rise; check that it’s fresh for the best results.
- Salt – Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness; no substitutions necessary.
For the Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Provides the sweet, smooth icing that finishes your cookies beautifully; you can blend regular sugar with cornstarch for a quick alternative.
Embrace the holiday spirit with these Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies and spread the joy of homemade treats!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden edge. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, making them ready for the delightful cookie dough that will soon be formed.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process adds air to the mixture, contributing to the cookies’ delightful texture. The result should look pale and creamy, giving your cookies a rich foundation.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in one egg, along with 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice and the zest of one orange. Blend everything together until thoroughly combined, about another minute. The citrus will brighten the flavor, enhancing the holiday spirit infused within these cranberry orange cookies. Set this mixture aside momentarily.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This step ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed, preventing any clumps. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Add Cranberries
Now, fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough. This is where the tartness comes to life! Make sure each scoop of dough includes some cranberries, creating a flavorful bite in every cookie. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 6: Shape and Place on Baking Sheets
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread while baking without merging together. You should see nice mounds of cookie dough ready to transform into delicious treats.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary; your cookies should look puffy and set in the middle. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Prepare the Icing
While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of orange juice and a bit of orange zest until smooth. This glaze adds a shiny finish to your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies for a festive touch that ties together the flavors beautifully.
Step 9: Allow to Set and Serve
Let the icing set for about 15-20 minutes before serving your holiday cookies. This resting time allows the glaze to firm up, creating a delightful presentation. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days, making them a perfect sweet treat for gatherings or cozy moments at home.
Storage Tips for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they are wrapped well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Ensure they are separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking; glaze them when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To refresh cookies, microwave them briefly for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for perfect creaming. This is crucial for the ideal texture in your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.
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Chill Dough if Sticky: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, chill it for about 30 minutes. This helps maintain the cookie shape while baking.
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Roll in Sugar: Roll your cookie dough balls in sugar before baking for an extra crunch and beautiful sparkle on top, enhancing the festive look.
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Storage Secrets: Keep your cookies fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months and glaze them when ready to serve.
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Add Texture: Consider mixing in white chocolate chips or chopped nuts to your dough for a delicious twist that complements the cranberry and orange flavors beautifully.
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Check Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake; they are done when the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
What to Serve with Festive Cranberry Orange Cookies
The joy of baking doesn’t stop at the cookies themselves; enhance your holiday spread with these delightful pairings.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture adds a comforting balance to the cookies’ sweet tartness.
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Herbed Green Beans: Fresh, crisp green beans tossed with herbs provide a refreshing contrast that brightens the meal.
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Cheese Platter: Offer an array of cheeses for a savory option. The creamy richness pairs surprisingly well with cranberry.
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Sparkling Cider: A bubbly, sweet drink that complements the flavors of the cookies while adding festive flair to any gathering.
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Orange-Infused Tea: Naturally echoing the cookies’ orange notes, a warm cup of tea creates a cozy and inviting experience during snack time.
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Cranberry Sauce: Serve this alongside cheese or on a charcuterie board for a tangy element that echoes the cookies’ flavor profile.
Enjoy these pairings to elevate both your cookies and your holiday spirit!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance, just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor. Additionally, you can roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; when you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookie balls on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results. Just remember to glaze the cookies fresh after baking for that beautiful finish. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have homemade holiday treats ready to impress, all while saving precious time for the festive season!
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these festive cookies that are sure to spark joy in every bite!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option that still offers a lovely texture and flavor.
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Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a warm crunch that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
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Frosting Options: Instead of the orange glaze, try drizzling with lemon icing for a zesty variation that brightens the flavor profile.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap dried cranberries with a mixture of dried cherries and apricots for a burst of different flavors that celebrate the holidays.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of white chocolate or dark chocolate chips into the dough for a delightful chocolatey contrast.
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Spiced Up: Include 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix for a cozy spice that enhances the holiday spirit in each cookie.
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Zesty Upgrade: Use lime or grapefruit zest in place of orange for a refreshing twist that presents a new layer of citrusy goodness.
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Citrus Medley: A mix of citrus juices like lemon, tangerine, and orange juice can create a unique flavor celebration in every bite, making these cookies even more special.
These variations can help you customize your cookie experience just like my favorite Fat Burning Soup or the crowd-pleasing Shepherd’s Pie Bowl! Embrace the joy of holiday baking and have fun experimenting!
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting dried cranberries, look for plump and moist options, as they’ll provide the best flavor and texture in your cookies. Avoid any that look overly dry or shriveled, as they’ll be less enjoyable in your treat.
What is the best way to store my cookies?
Very! To keep your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Of course! You can freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Just place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply glaze them after thawing for a lovely, fresh finish.
What if my cookies come out too flat?
Don’t worry! If your cookies spread too much, it’s likely due to melted butter or not enough flour. Ensure your butter is softened (not melted) when creaming and try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape and gives you those delightful, chewy edges.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes, they can! I recommend using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount to help bind the ingredients. This way, everyone can enjoy the festive flavors!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
Absolutely! However, be aware that the sugar and chocolate (if added) can be harmful to pets. Additionally, the citrus from the orange juice and zest is best avoided for dogs. Always keep any baked goods well out of reach to protect your furry friends!
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe in 30 Mins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, orange juice, and orange zest until thoroughly combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in dried cranberries evenly into the dough.
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden; cool on sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to racks.
- Prepare icing by mixing powdered sugar with orange juice and zest until smooth; drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Allow icing to set for 15-20 minutes before serving.