As the first hints of winter settle in, there’s nothing quite like the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are a delightful way to embrace the season, blending the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries with the vibrant brightness of fresh orange zest. Each bite offers a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by a subtle crunch along the edges, thanks to a light dusting of sugar before baking.
I discovered this treasure during one of my holiday baking sessions, inspired by the fruits of the season. With only 30 minutes needed for preparation, these cookies are not just quick but make-ahead friendly, allowing for stress-free baking when welcoming friends and family. Perfect for festive gatherings or quiet afternoons with a warm cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring a sprinkle of joy to your holiday festivities. Join me in creating a batch of these irresistible delights that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The zesty orange pairs perfectly with tart cranberries, creating a bright and refreshing taste that stands out among holiday treats.
Quick and Easy: Prepared in just 30 minutes, they fit seamlessly into your busy holiday schedule.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be made in advance and stored, making holiday baking a breeze!
Versatile Options: Add white chocolate or nuts for delightful variations that cater to every palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are bound to be a hit, whether at a festive gathering or enjoyed leisurely at home!
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Use King Arthur for the best structure; essential for fluffy cookies.
- Large Egg – At room temperature, it helps bind the dough perfectly.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Offers vibrant flavor; freshly squeezed is preferred for a brighter taste.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Packed Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; can replace with white sugar mixed with molasses.
- Fresh Orange Zest – Infuses aroma and flavor; be sure to avoid the bitter white pith.
- Sweetened Dried Cranberries – Provides flavor and texture; opt for sweetened to balance tartness.
- Baking Soda – Necessary for achieving that fluffy, airy texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Brings richness; substitutes like coconut oil can be used, though they may alter taste.
For the Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Forms the silky icing base; can swap with finely blended regular sugar and cornstarch.
- Orange Juice – Incorporates in the icing for a zesty flavor burst.
- Orange Zest – Adds extra brightness to the icing, enhancing the overall cookie experience.
Indulge in these Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies that not only elevate your holiday treats but are also effortless to prepare!
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden.
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Cream: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Combine: Next, mix in the large egg, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest. Beat until everything is fully combined and smooth, creating a delightful citrusy aroma.
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Whisk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your cookie dough.
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Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix, or your cookies may turn out tough.
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Fold: Gently fold in the sweetened dried cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough for bursts of flavor in each cookie.
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Spoon: Using a tablespoon, spoon dollops of the dough onto prepared cookie sheets, leaving space between each for spreading while baking.
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Bake: Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft and chewy.
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Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for about 2 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare Icing: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with a splash of orange juice and some orange zest until smooth. This will create a lovely icing to drizzle over your cookies.
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Drizzle: Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the icing over the tops and allow it to harden before storing, adding a beautiful finish to your festive delicacies.
Optional: Sprinkle with additional orange zest for a brighter flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on a classic treat!
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Dried Fruit Swap: Substitute dried cherries or chopped dried apricots for cranberries for a fruity flavor change. You’ll discover a new favorite in no time!
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend like King Arthur Measure for Measure to make these cookies accessible for everyone. They’ll be just as delicious!
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra texture. The nuts add a lovely richness that enhances each bite.
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Citrus Variations: Experiment with lemon or lime zest in place of orange zest for a different tanginess. This bright twist brings in a refreshing punch!
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Chocolate Twist: Mix in white chocolate chips for a sweet addition that perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries. The blend creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough to introduce warm, holiday spices. It’s a subtle touch that elevates the cookie experience.
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Maple Flavor: Replace brown sugar with maple sugar for a unique twist that lends a gentle maple undertone to your cookies. You’ll find a new taste sensation!
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Icing Enhancements: Consider infusing the icing with vanilla extract or even a splash of amaretto for an adult twist. This adds extra depth and character to your festive cookies.
What to Serve with Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies?
As you indulge in these festive delights, consider pairing them with complementary flavors and textures for a delightful holiday feast.
- Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices in cider harmonize beautifully with the citrus flavor, enhancing the holiday spirit.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and smooth, hot chocolate offers a decadent contrast to the tartness of the cookies, perfect for cozy nights.
- Gingerbread Layer Cake: This spiced cake adds a delightful contrast and layers of flavor that echo the holiday vibe.
For a more savory touch, a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar can balance the sweetness, making it perfect for entertaining guests.
- Festive Cheese Board: Include a mix of sharp cheddar and soft brie, creating a perfect pairing with the cookies.
- Peppermint Mocha: This seasonal favorite packs a punch that pairs pleasantly with the bright notes of orange in the cookies.
- Pecan Pie: The nutty sweetness of pecan pie complements the chewy texture and fruity notes of the cookies like a warm hug.
These pairings create a cozy atmosphere and complete any holiday gathering, transforming your cookie enjoyment into a delightful feast!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.
Fridge: In warmer climates, refrigerate cookies to prevent spoilage, ensuring they’re still sealed in an airtight container for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; thaw before indulging.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back their soft, delightful texture without overbaking.
Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and results in better cookies.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest will elevate the flavors, making your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies even more delightful.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges, while the centers should remain soft for a chewy texture.
- Try Different Mix-ins: For a sweet twist, consider adding white chocolate chips or nuts to your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Proper Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Un-iced cookies also freeze well for 3 months; just remember to thaw before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. For longer storage, feel free to freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just make sure to shape it into balls before freezing for easy baking later. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out of the fridge or freezer, allow it to soften slightly, and then proceed with baking as directed. I assure you, even when made ahead, these cookies will turn out just as delightfully soft and chewy!
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best dried cranberries for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for sweetened dried cranberries like Craisins, as they provide the right balance of tartness and sweetness. Check for vibrant color and ensure there are no dark spots or excessive stickiness—those can signify old or overly dried fruit.
How should I store my Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies?
I often recommend storing these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 5 days. If you live in a warm climate, store them in the fridge—this will help maintain their quality, just remember they should still be in a sealed container!
Can I freeze Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies?
Very! To freeze them, first place the un-iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find that the dough is sticking to your hands or the mixing bowl, don’t worry! Simply refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This chilling process will make it easier to handle and help your cookies maintain their shape while baking—ensuring you get that perfect, fluffy texture!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
It’s best to keep these cookies away from your furry friends. Chocolate and certain nuts can be harmful to dogs, and while cranberries are generally safe, the sugars in these cookies may not be suitable for pets. Always err on the side of caution and save these cookies for human enjoyment!
What adjustments can I make for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend like King Arthur Measure for Measure. If you need to avoid allergens, you can also substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, keeping in mind that these may slightly alter the taste and texture.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the large egg, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in the sweetened dried cranberries.
- Spoon dollops of the dough onto prepared cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool on sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Mix powdered sugar with orange juice and zest until smooth.
- Drizzle icing over cookies and let it harden.