Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the spirit of the holidays to life, then you must try my Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe. These cookies are bursting with the vibrant flavors of tart cranberries and zesty oranges, making them a festive addition to any gathering. They are perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or even just cozy evenings at home with loved ones.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity and the joy it brings when shared. The warm aroma of these cookies baking will fill your home with holiday cheer, and I guarantee that once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked! Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on busy weeknights or during family gatherings when everyone is looking for something sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 8 minutes in the oven, you can have fresh cookies ready in under half an hour!
• Family favorite: The combination of cranberry and orange is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for later baking.
• Festive flavors: These cookies capture all the warmth and joy of the holiday season in every bite.
• Perfect for sharing: Pack them up in cute boxes or tins for thoughtful gifts or treats to share with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. They come together easily, making this recipe a breeze!

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 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

This cookie recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can mix things up to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Use different fruits: Substitute dried cherries or blueberries if you want a change from cranberries.
• Try different zest: Mix in lemon or lime zest to give a refreshing twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.

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 mixing bowl. This step is important because it creates a light and airy texture in your cookies. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is fluffy and well combined—about 3 minutes should do!

Step 2: Add Egg and Citrus Juice

Next, beat in one egg along with two tablespoons of fresh orange juice and one teaspoon of orange zest. Mixing in these ingredients adds moisture while enhancing that delicious citrus flavor we love. Make sure everything is well blended before moving on.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This helps keep your cookies tender.

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in two cups of dried cranberries using a spatula. These little gems will provide bursts of tartness that contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for about eight minutes until lightly golden around the edges. The key here is to avoid overbaking so they stay soft!

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your cookies cool down on wire racks, whip up a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with three tablespoons of orange juice and half a teaspoon of orange zest until smooth. Drizzle this dreamy glaze over your cooled cookies for that extra festive touch!

And there you have it—your Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are ready to enjoy! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing them with others, I hope they bring joy and sweetness to your holiday celebrations!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air well, leading to fluffy cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the cookies from becoming tough, keeping them soft and chewy.
• Chill your dough if necessary: If your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes can help maintain the shape of the cookies while baking.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth in flavor.
• Store correctly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

These cranberry orange cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for festive gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a beautiful touch and enhances the sweetness.
• Orange zest: A few extra shavings of orange zest on top brightens up the presentation and amplifies the citrus aroma.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa pairs wonderfully with these cookies, creating a cozy treat that’s perfect for chilly winter evenings.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the tartness of cranberries beautifully, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness of the cookies and provide a light option for guests.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can enhance the flavors of your cookies and offer a savory counterpart that guests will love.

Enjoy baking and sharing these wonderful Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies with loved ones this holiday season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice to bake ahead for your holiday gatherings. Not only do they taste delightful, but they also store well, allowing you to enjoy them fresh throughout the season.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, consider layering parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Bake the cookies and let them cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to three months.

Reheating

• If you want to enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy with a fresh cup of tea or coffee!

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful recipe, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some common questions that might help.

What makes these the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

These cookies combine the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of orange, creating a festive treat that captures the essence of Christmas. The soft texture paired with a sweet glaze makes them irresistible!

Can I use fresh cranberries in this Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

While dried cranberries give these cookies a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness, fresh cranberries can be used. Just keep in mind they will add more tartness, so you may need to adjust the sugar slightly.

How long does it take to make these cookies?

The total time for this recipe is just 25 minutes! With 15 minutes of prep and only 8 minutes of baking, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. This way, everyone can enjoy these festive treats!

What is the best way to serve these cookies?

These cookies are delightful on their own or served with tea or coffee. They also make lovely gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or tins!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in making these Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies. Their sweet-tart flavor combination embodies holiday spirit and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying during quiet moments. Don’t forget to savor every bite! Happy baking!