The sweet aroma of cranberry orange cookies wafts through the air, promising a delightful treat that dances on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie bursting with zesty orange and tart cranberry flavors, all while the warmth of spices wraps around you like a cozy blanket.
Every holiday season, these cookies become the star of my kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and joy. They are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying by yourself with a cup of tea. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you craving more! For more inspiration, check out this more dessert ideas recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cranberry orange cookies are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- The vibrant colors make them a feast for the eyes as well
- With their unique flavor profile, they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round!
I remember the first time I made these cookies; my friends couldn’t resist going back for seconds (or thirds!).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it helps create that perfect cookie base.
- Baking Soda: Essential for leavening; it gives your cookies that gentle rise.
- Salt: A pinch enhances flavors—don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter creates a creamy dough; it’s essential for rich flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key; adjust based on your preference.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor—yum!
- Eggs: Bind everything together; use large eggs for the best results.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth to your cookies’ flavor.
- Dried Cranberries: Tartness is essential; choose the plumpest ones you can find!
- Fresh Orange Zest: This brightens up the flavor profile—use a microplane for fine zesting.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices warm up the flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time while mixing, followed by vanilla extract. Continue mixing until well combined—it should be smooth and creamy.
Add Dry Ingredients Gradually
Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want tender cookies!
Add Cranberries and Orange Zest
Gently fold in dried cranberries and fresh orange zest using a spatula. This step adds bursts of flavor in every bite!
Scoop Cookie Dough onto Baking Sheets
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. This allows room for spreading during baking.
Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown but centers remain soft. They will continue cooking after being removed from the oven.
Let these delicious cranberry orange cookies cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks. Be sure to savor each bite as you enjoy their delightful crunch! For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
Now you have all the ingredients and steps needed to whip up these yummy treats! Don’t forget that sharing is caring—but if you decide to keep them all for yourself, who could blame you?
You Must Know
- Cranberry orange cookies are a delightful blend of tart and sweet
- The aroma alone can bring back memories of festive gatherings
- These cookies are not just a treat; they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs and zest before mixing in dry ingredients for the perfect consistency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for dried cherries or add nuts for extra crunch! Experimentation is half the fun.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cranberry orange cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to a week.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh orange zest to enhance flavor; it makes a world of difference
- Ensure the butter is softened for easy creaming and better texture
- Lastly, don’t overbake them; soft centers create that perfect chewy bite
I remember the first time I made cranberry orange cookies. My family couldn’t stop raving about them, and my cousin even asked if I could make a batch for her wedding!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries in my cranberry orange cookies?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
How do I get my cookies to be chewy?
Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar to maintain chewiness.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely! Just store them in an airtight container for up to three months.
Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Cranberry Orange Cookies are a festive delight that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of fresh orange. These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings or enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Their vibrant colors and aromatic spices create a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to indulge. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply treating yourself, this recipe guarantees a mouthwatering experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest.
- Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Allow to cool on wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg