Cranberry Orange Cookies are like little bites of happiness wrapped in a sweet, zesty hug. Imagine the moment you crack one open—the warm aroma of orange zest mingles with the tartness of dried cranberries, inviting you to take a bite and bask in the glorious flavors. It’s the kind of cookie that whispers, “Eat me!” while also gently reminding you that the holiday season is just around the corner. For more inspiration, check out this dinner ideas recipe.
These cookies are not only delicious but also evoke fond memories of baking with loved ones during chilly winter afternoons. The kitchen fills with laughter and chatter as flour dusts the countertops and cookie dough gets sneakily sampled. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, these cookies are bound to become a delightful staple that everyone will crave.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Orange Cookies are incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers
- The bright flavors create a perfect balance between sweet and tart
- Their vibrant color makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert spread
- They’re versatile enough for holiday celebrations or an afternoon treat with coffee
Baking these cookies always earns big smiles from my friends; they can’t resist asking for seconds (or third helpings).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; I recommend using unbleached flour for a more natural flavor. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert recipes recipe.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness; consider using brown sugar for added moisture and flavor depth.
- Dried Cranberries: Look for plump cranberries; they add a delightful tartness and chewiness to each bite.
- Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest enhances the cookies’ citrus flavor; don’t skimp on this fragrant ingredient.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature; it helps create a rich, tender texture in your cookies.
- Baking Soda: This leavening agent gives your cookies a lovely lift, making them soft and chewy.
- Eggs: Large eggs bind everything together nicely, adding moisture and richness to the dough.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract rounds out the flavors beautifully; quality matters here!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper—this will keep your cookies from sticking.
Create Your Cookie Dough Base: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 minutes using an electric mixer; you want it airy!
Add in Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract and orange zest. The mixture should look smooth and homogenous—like sunshine in a bowl.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix or you’ll end up with tough cookies.
Stir in Dried Cranberries: Gently fold in dried cranberries using a spatula or wooden spoon. You want them evenly distributed throughout the dough without crushing them.
Scoop and Bake!: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Let them cool slightly before transferring to wire racks.
With these steps complete, your kitchen should now be filled with delightful scents that beckon everyone nearby! Enjoy these delectable treats with friends or savor them solo while binge-watching your favorite show!
You Must Know
- These cranberry orange cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies
- The sweet-tart flavor combination creates a refreshing treat, perfect for any occasion
- Their chewy texture and bright aroma will make your kitchen smell like a holiday wonderland
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients separately before folding in cranberries and orange zest for even distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for dried cherries or toss in some white chocolate chips for an extra treat. A pinch of cinnamon can elevate the flavor too.
Storing & Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For a warm treat, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect cranberry orange cookies, remember to chill your dough briefly before baking
- This prevents spreading and helps maintain their shape
- Always use fresh orange zest for a vibrant flavor that sings joyfully with every bite
Baking these cookies always brings back memories of holiday gatherings where friends devoured them before I could even finish decorating!
FAQ
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the sugar content due to their tartness.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend to replace all-purpose flour without compromising taste.
What is the best way to freeze cookie dough?
Scoop dough balls onto a baking tray and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-lock bag.
Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Cranberry Orange Cookies are a delightful seasonal treat that perfectly balance sweet and tart flavors. Bursting with the freshness of orange zest and chewy dried cranberries, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons. With their vibrant color and inviting aroma, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and orange zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in dried cranberries gently.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg