Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that captures the spirit of the holidays, then you’ve come to the right place! The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of fresh oranges. These cookies are not just delicious; they fill your home with a delightful aroma that makes everyone feel festive. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party, a family gathering, or just because, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. With just a few easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on cozy nights at home. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them year after year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep and bake time, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry and orange; kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds!
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it, so when guests arrive, you can bake fresh cookies on demand.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of cranberries and oranges adds a bright touch to your dessert table during the holidays.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! With simple and wholesome items listed below, you’ll be on your way to baking these delicious cookies in no time.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch that complements the chewy cranberries.
• Use Fresh Cranberries: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap dried cranberries for fresh ones. Just remember to adjust the sugar slightly as fresh cranberries are more tart!
• Mix in Spices: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cookies a warm spice blend that feels extra cozy during the holidays.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a tasty treat everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into your mixture, making your cookies tender and airy. Use an electric mixer if you have one—it’s quicker!

Step 2: Add Egg and Citrus

Next, add in the egg along with the orange juice and zest. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg acts as a binding agent while the citrus adds that delightful zing we love in these cookies!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Slowly add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This helps prevent flour from flying everywhere! Mixing just until combined ensures your cookies stay soft.

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Once your dough has come together, gently fold in those beautiful dried cranberries. They add bursts of flavor that will make each bite special. Try not to overmix; we want those cranberries distributed without breaking them apart!

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each ball as they will spread while baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Make the Icing

While your cookies cool down, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth. This sweet icing adds an irresistible finish to our already fabulous cookies!

Step 7: Drizzle Icing Over Cookies

Once cooled completely, drizzle icing over each cookie using a spoon or piping bag for precision. Allow icing to set before serving—if you can resist sneaking one early!

There you have it—your very own batch of Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies! Enjoy every bite while sharing them with loved ones this holiday season. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Baking these delightful cookies can be a joyful experience, so here are some pro tips to ensure your cranberry orange cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter helps create a smoother dough and ensures that your cookies have a lovely, even texture.

• Don’t skip the zest: Adding orange zest intensifies the citrus flavor in your cookies, giving them that fresh, vibrant taste that’s perfect for the holidays.

• Chill the dough if possible: Allowing your cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading and result in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Check for doneness: Since these cookies bake quickly, keep an eye on them! They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix things up by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Serving these cookies can be just as fun as baking them! With a little creativity and festive flair, you can make your presentation truly special.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful snowy effect that’s perfect for Christmas.
• Fresh orange slices: Placing a thin slice of fresh orange beside the cookies on a platter adds color and enhances the citrus theme.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa pairs perfectly with these sweet treats, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.

• Spiced chai tea: This aromatic tea brings warmth and spices that complement the flavors of cranberry and orange beautifully.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds a healthy balance to your sweet treat table.

• Cheese platter: Including a selection of creamy cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of your cookies—think brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch!

These serving suggestions will not only elevate your cookie experience but also impress your holiday guests! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy festive flavors throughout the holiday season. You can whip up a batch ahead of time and savor them at your leisure!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

How can I adjust the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe for dietary preferences?

You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This will keep the cookies delicious while accommodating different dietary needs.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried in the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe?

While dried cranberries provide a nice chewy texture and sweetness, you can use fresh cranberries. Just remember they are tart, so consider adding a bit more sugar if you prefer sweeter cookies!

What’s the best way to incorporate orange zest into my cookies?

Make sure to finely grate the outer layer of an orange peel using a microplane grater. This will give your cookies that bright citrus flavor without any bitterness.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers may appear slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool, resulting in a delightful texture.

Can I add nuts or chocolate to this cookie recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dark chocolate chips for an extra treat. Just ensure that any additions complement the cranberry and orange flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies! The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is sure to bring warmth and cheer to your holiday gatherings. Enjoy making them with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to share your delightful creations! Happy baking!