Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to share during the holiday season, then you’ve come to the right place! My Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is a festive favorite that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking!

What makes these cookies truly special is their vibrant flavor and chewy texture. They are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces, whether you’re enjoying them at a cozy family dinner or giving them as homemade gifts. So grab your apron and let’s get started on this sweet adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have cookies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will love the sweet-tart flavor combo!
• Perfect for gifting: Pack these cookies in cute boxes for friends and family; they make thoughtful holiday treats.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake it fresh when you need it.
• Versatile flavors: The cranberry-orange pairing is festive, but you can mix in other flavors too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create these delicious treats!

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 Icing

• 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 quite flexible and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Switch up the fruit: Try using dried cherries or blueberries instead of cranberries for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy spice note.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter.

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them together until light and fluffy. This step is essential because creaming aerates the mixture, helping your cookies rise beautifully as they bake.

Step 2: Add Egg and Flavors

Next, add in the egg, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix until well combined. The egg helps bind everything together while adding moisture. The citrus juice and zest will infuse your dough with that lovely holiday flavor we all adore.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Now it’s time for those dried cranberries! Gently fold them into your cookie dough until evenly distributed. This step ensures each bite has a burst of fruity goodness.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you scoop out spoonfuls of dough onto lined baking sheets. Bake for about 8 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; you want soft centers that will firm up as they cool.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

While your cookies cool, mix powdered sugar with orange juice and zest until smooth. This icing will add an extra touch of sweetness that complements our cranberry-orange flavors perfectly.

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled, drizzle the icing over your cookies using a spoon or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy! Let them set before serving so that icing firms up just enough.

There you have it—your very own batch of Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies! Enjoy sharing them (or keeping them all to yourself) this holiday season!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Making cookies for the holidays can be a joyful experience, and with these tips, your cranberry orange cookies will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use softened butter – This helps in creaming the butter and sugars together more effectively, resulting in a lighter texture for your cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Once you combine your dry ingredients with the wet ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
• Chill the dough briefly – If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to swap or add ingredients like chopped nuts or white chocolate chips. These can provide a nice crunch and additional flavor layers.
• Check for doneness carefully – Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

These delightful cranberry orange cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family moments. Present them on a festive platter or in a decorative tin for gifting!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful snowy effect that’s perfect for Christmas.
• Orange zest twirls – Use thin strips of orange zest as a garnish to enhance the citrus aroma and add visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa – This classic drink pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberries and sweetness from oranges, making it a great cozy companion.
• Eggnog (non-dairy) – For a creamy, spiced beverage that complements your cookies, consider using a non-dairy eggnog option available in stores.
• Fruit salad – A fresh fruit salad can balance out the richness of cookies, offering a refreshing contrast with seasonal fruits like pomegranates and pears.
• Cheese platter – Include some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet cookies.

With these serving ideas and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to make the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe! Enjoy every bite and share them with your loved ones this holiday season.

Make Ahead and Storage

What I love about these Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies is that they are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time, ensuring you’re all set for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Here’s how to handle leftovers and make the most of your cookie batch.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• For longer freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper; they will keep well 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 heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry!

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe.

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried cranberries in this recipe?

While dried cranberries provide sweetness and texture, fresh cranberries can be used. However, you’ll want to increase the sugar slightly as fresh cranberries are tart.

How can I make this Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best results.

Can I add nuts to this cookie recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a delightful addition. Just fold them in with the dried cranberries before baking.

What’s the best way to zest an orange?

To zest an orange, use a microplane or zester. Just be sure to only scrape off the bright orange part of the peel while avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.

How long does it take to prepare this cookie recipe?

The total time from prep to enjoying your delicious cookies is about 25 minutes—perfect for those busy holiday days!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe a try! It’s such a heartwarming treat that fills your home with delightful aromas and festive cheer. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them yourself, these cookies are bound to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every moment of making them, and don’t forget—every batch is an opportunity to spread some holiday joy!