Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the spirit of the holidays right into your kitchen, then you’ve come to the right place! The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is a special favorite of mine. Each bite bursts with zesty orange and sweet-tart cranberries, making it the perfect companion for cozy family gatherings or busy weeknights when you just want something sweet and cheerful.

These cookies are not just delicious; they carry the warmth of holiday traditions, making them an ideal gift for friends or a delightful addition to your festive dessert table. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making these cookies year after year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll whip up a batch in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet citrus flavor combined with chewy cranberries.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready!
• Deliciously Festive: The flavors of cranberry and orange scream holiday cheer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry.

For the Cookies

• 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 Glaze

• 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it on top for an indulgent touch.
• Coconut Flakes: Stir in some unsweetened coconut flakes to add a tropical flair.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced cookie vibe.

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by creaming together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into your mixture, leading to light and fluffy cookies. Use an electric mixer if you have one—this makes it much easier!

Step 2: Add Egg and Orange Flavor

Next, mix in the egg, orange juice, and orange zest until everything is well combined. The orange zest adds so much brightness to these cookies—it’s what makes them truly special!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mixing slowly helps prevent flour from flying everywhere while ensuring everything comes together smoothly.

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Time to fold in those beautiful dried cranberries! Gently stir them into the dough using a spatula until evenly distributed. This step ensures each cookie gets its fair share of fruity goodness.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto lined baking sheets. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden. Keep an eye on them—they’ll continue cooking even after you take them out!

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your cookies cool down, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze adds that perfect finishing touch!

Step 7: Drizzle Away!

Once your cookies are completely cool, drizzle that lovely glaze over each cookie. Allow it to set before diving into these scrumptious treats!

And there you have it—the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is ready to enjoy! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Making the best cookies is all about the little details, and I’ve got some great tips to help you achieve cookie perfection this holiday season!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with butter and egg at room temperature helps them mix more easily, leading to a better texture in your cookies.

• Don’t skip the zest: Adding orange zest not only enhances the flavor but also gives your cookies a lovely aroma that’s reminiscent of Christmas mornings.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can prevent spreading and result in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips if you want to customize your cookies further. Just make sure to adjust the quantity of cranberries accordingly!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

These delightful cranberry orange cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, and how you serve them can make all the difference! Here are some fun ideas:

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the tartness of cranberries.
• Orange zest garnish: A few strips of fresh orange zest on top not only enhance visual appeal but also reinforce that delicious citrus flavor.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa pairs beautifully with these cookies, providing a rich contrast to their sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like apples and pomegranates balances out the richness of the cookies.
• Cheese platter: A mix of soft cheeses and dried fruits offers a savory contrast that enhances the flavors of your cranberry orange treats.
• Spiced tea: Serve these cookies alongside a cup of spiced tea for a festive touch that warms both body and soul during the chilly winter months.

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the holiday season. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe that you might find helpful!

Can I make the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe without butter?

Yes! You can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative or coconut oil to make these cookies dairy-free while keeping them just as delicious.

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

The total time from prep to bake is just 25 minutes, making it quick and easy to include these festive treats in your holiday baking!

What can I use instead of dried cranberries in the recipe?

You can replace dried cranberries with other dried fruits like cherries, apricots, or even chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous!

Can I add nuts to the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would complement the flavors beautifully. Just be sure to adjust the quantity according to your preference.

How should I store the cookies after baking?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies! The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange truly captures the spirit of the holidays. These cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with loved ones. Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with joy and scrumptious treats!