Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your holiday season, the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is just what you need. These cookies burst with the zesty flavor of orange and the tartness of cranberries, creating a perfect balance that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, a cozy family night, or just to savor with a hot cup of cocoa, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite.

What makes these cookies even more special is their ease of preparation. You don’t have to be a seasoned baker to whip up a batch of these cheerful delights. They are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks, ensuring that everyone will leave with a smile!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Kid-friendly fun: Get the little ones involved! They’ll love mixing and shaping the dough.
• Make-ahead delight: Bake them in advance and store them for those busy holiday moments.
• Festive flavors: The combination of cranberry and orange is a holiday classic that never gets old!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome—perfect for baking with love! Here’s everything you need to whip up your cookies:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add some nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Switch up the fruit: Try dried cherries or raisins if cranberries aren’t your favorite.
• Make them festive: Add festive sprinkles on top of the glaze for a pop of color!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Start by creaming together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Egg and Citrus

Next, beat in one egg along with two tablespoons of fresh orange juice and one teaspoon of orange zest. The citrus brings brightness to each bite! Make sure everything is well combined; this will help create that delicious flavor profile we’re after.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This prevents flour from flying everywhere! Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Fold in Dried Cranberries

Gently fold in two cups of dried cranberries using a spatula or spoon. The goal here is to evenly distribute them without breaking them apart too much. Those little bursts of tartness will be such a treat when you bite into your cookies!

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden on the edges. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to overdone quickly!

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, three tablespoons of orange juice, and half a teaspoon of zest until smooth. Drizzle this delightful glaze over your cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it—the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe! Enjoy every bite during those cozy winter evenings or share them as gifts. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Baking these delightful cookies can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures that the butter creamed with sugar achieves the right fluffy texture, which is crucial for light and airy cookies.

• Don’t skip the zest: Adding orange zest intensifies the citrus flavor, giving your cookies that bright, fresh taste that pairs beautifully with cranberries.

• Chill the dough: For perfectly shaped cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and allows the flavors to meld together.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts or white chocolate chips to enhance the cookie’s texture and flavor profile even further.

• Watch the baking time: Since ovens can vary, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Pull them out when they are just starting to turn golden around the edges for soft and chewy cookies.

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Presenting these festive cookies is all about adding a cozy touch that will make your gathering feel extra special!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Orange slices: Fresh orange slices can be placed on the serving platter for a pop of color and an extra hint of citrus fragrance.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa pairs wonderfully with these cookies, enhancing their festive feel and providing a comforting treat.
• Spiced tea: A fragrant spiced tea brings warmth and spices that harmonize beautifully with cranberry and orange flavors.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like apples and pears will balance the sweetness of the cookies while adding nutritious elements.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers a savory contrast to sweet cookies, making for an inviting appetizer spread.

Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with family and friends during this joyful season!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful cookies throughout the holiday season without any hassle. Here’s how to store and handle your cookies to keep them fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They can be kept for up to one week without losing flavor or texture.
• If you prefer chilled cookies, you can also refrigerate them in the same airtight container.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them 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.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat and dry them out.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful recipe? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

What makes this the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a refreshing flavor profile that complements the sweetness of the cookie base. It’s a festive treat that’s sure to impress during holiday gatherings!

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

Absolutely! You can use vegan butter as a substitute for regular butter, and consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when my cranberry orange cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or dairy-free chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Just be cautious not to overload the dough!

How should I serve these cookies for a holiday gathering?

These cookies are perfect served on a festive platter alongside other treats. Consider garnishing with additional orange zest or dried cranberries for an extra touch of holiday cheer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies! With their vibrant flavors and festive spirit, they are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Enjoy every bite and share them with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like homemade treats during this special season. Happy baking!