As the scent of oranges fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It reminds me of holiday gatherings, with everyone eagerly waiting to savor their favorite treats. Among them, my Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies steal the show, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season. These cookies are not only a delightful blend of tangy cranberries and zesty oranges, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up — making them a fantastic choice for busy holiday schedules. Whether you’re preparing for cookie exchanges or cozy evenings by the fireplace, these soft, buttery delights are sure to please everyone. Ready to become the star of your festive celebrations? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds!
Why Is This Cookie Recipe Special?
Festive Flavors: Packed with fresh orange zest and tart cranberries, these cookies perfectly embody the essence of holiday cheer.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve buttery, soft perfection in no time.
Gifts Galore: Ideal for cookie exchanges or gifting, these treats are guaranteed to impress friends and family alike.
Versatile Options: Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding spices or swapping dried fruits for an extra personal touch.
Make Ahead: Prep these cookies ahead of time and freeze them for a hassle-free baking session during the bustling holiday season! For more quick treats, check out my Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger recipe or explore delightful options like Big Mac Wrap.
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine or vegan butter for dairy-free options.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve the cookie’s texture; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Large Egg – Acts as a binder for the dough; substitute with a flax or chia egg for a vegan option.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Adds moisture and tangy flavor; use bottled juice if fresh is unavailable, but it may not be as vibrant.
- Finely Grated Orange Zest – Enhances flavor and aroma; avoid substitutes, as zest offers unique oils and flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise; ensure freshness for best results.
- Baking Soda – Aids in spreading and browning; do not omit for texture.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use sea salt for a gourmet touch.
For the Mix-Ins
- Dried Cranberries (Chopped) – Provides tartness and chewy texture; substitute with raisins or dried cherries if desired.
- White Chocolate Chips – Offers sweetness and creaminess; omit or replace with dark chocolate for less sweetness or dairy-free.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Adds crunch and flavor; omit or replace with seeds for a nut-free variation.
For the Glaze
- Simple Orange Glaze – For drizzling to finish; make with powdered sugar and orange juice, adjusting sweetness by adding more sugar.
Get ready to enjoy the holiday spirit in every bite of these delightful Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take the time to line your baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies. This preparation sets the stage for even baking, allowing the cookies to achieve that perfect golden edge while keeping the centers delightfully soft.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, grab softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, creating a tender texture in your cookies. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns pale and airy, filling your kitchen with a rich buttery scent.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Once your butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, add in a large egg along with fresh orange juice and finely grated orange zest. Mix on low speed until these ingredients are just combined, ensuring a smooth and cohesive dough. This step integrates the citrus flavors, which will shine through in your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies, giving them a delightful holiday aroma.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Once mixed well, gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Continue until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this will lead to tough cookies. You want to see a dough that is soft and slightly sticky, ready to hold in all those delicious mix-ins.
Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Now it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, and chopped nuts using a spatula or wooden spoon. This careful folding ensures that the tasty add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough without overworking it. The sweetness of the chocolate and tartness of the cranberries create that delightful balance in your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape
Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the cookie dough and roll them into balls. Place each ball about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets, allowing room for spreading while baking. This spacing is critical to ensure your cookies don’t merge into one another. Aim for uniformity in size, so they bake evenly, resulting in a batch of beautifully shaped Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for lightly golden edges with centers that remain soft. This visual cue indicates that your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfectly baked, ready to provide that lovely gooey texture we all adore during the holidays.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, you can drizzle them with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. This final touch not only adds sweetness but enhances the festive flavor of your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies, making them a show-stopping treat!
What to Serve with Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Imagine a cozy holiday gathering where the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies dances through the air, inviting laughter and warmth.
- Hot Cocoa: The rich, velvety flavor complements the tangy cookies, creating a comforting balance that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
- Coffee: A medium roast balances the sweetness of the cookies while enhancing their citrus notes, making it an ideal pairing for brunch or afternoon treats.
- Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like orange slices and apples not only brighten the table but also add a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ sweetness.
- Spiced Nuts: The crunch and savory flavor of roasted spices make a delightful counterpoint, offering a nutty crunch between bites of cookie.
- Cheese Board: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a creamy, tangy union, marrying well with the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A dollop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the warm cookies creates a decadent dessert that evokes holiday bliss.
- Mulled Wine: The warm spices and fruitiness of mulled wine beautifully echo the flavors of the cookies, making for festive sips as you munch away.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Pairing your cranberry cookies with classic gingerbread brings a festive variety that celebrates the season’s traditional flavors.
- Peppermint Bark: The cool minty crunch of peppermint bark offers a fun holiday twist, making it an exciting treat alongside your cookies.
- Milk: Nothing beats the classic pairing of cookies and milk – the cool, creamy beverage washes down the rich cookies in the best possible way!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for busy holiday preparations! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the dough as directed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you plan to bake them later, the formed dough balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months — just scoop and roll them into balls before placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until firm. To maintain their delicious texture, ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for the best results. These make-ahead tips will ensure your holiday baking is stress-free and enjoyable!
Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth mixture; cold butter can lead to uneven mixing and texture issues.
- Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the dough to keep your cookies tender and chewy. Mix just until combined for the best results.
- Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly to firm up before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart.
- Visual Appeal: Consider varying the size of cranberries or nuts you add for a more visually appealing cookie; a bit of diversity catches the eye!
- Glaze Adjustment: When making the orange glaze, adjust sweetness by gradually adding more powdered sugar until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Dried Fruit Swaps: Feel free to swap cranberries with other dried fruits for a twist; just ensure they complement the flavor of the Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and delicious for holiday munching.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This will maintain their texture while extending their freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shaped cookie dough or baked cookies in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and enjoy within 3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie, reheat frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies will taste homemade all over again!
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity run wild with these delightful cookies! Each twist adds a unique flavor and texture to your holiday treats.
- Dried Fruit Swap: Replace dried cranberries with chopped dried cherries or apricots for a different fruity flavor. This substitution can give your cookies a sweet surprise.
- Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced note that’ll evoke all the cozy feelings of the season. It’s a great way to give your cookies an inviting aroma.
- Nut-Free Option: If allergies are a concern, simply omit nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch without the peanuts. Your family and friends will love these additions!
- Vegan Twist: Swap the large egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to keep it plant-based. Your holiday guests won’t even guess they’re enjoying vegan cookies!
- Chocolate Lovers Unite: Substitute white chocolate chips with dark chocolate or cocoa nibs for a less sweet and more decadent treat, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Zesty Variation: Enhance flavor by tossing in a splash of vanilla extract along with the wet ingredients. This adds a rich dimension to the citrusy cookie, making it utterly irresistible!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Everyone deserves a taste of these holiday delights!
- Glaze Alteration: Change up the glaze by adding a touch of orange extract or almond extract for an exciting flavor punch that will impress even the pickiest cookie connoisseurs.
For more delightful variations, check out my Big Mac Pasta recipe to shake things up this holiday season!
Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cranberries for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use dried cranberries that are plump and free of any dark spots. They should look bright in color and feel soft when you squeeze them gently. If using fresh cranberries instead, pick ones that are firm and glossy, avoiding any that are bruised or shriveled.
How should I store my Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies?
Once cooled, place your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This method will help maintain their soft, buttery texture. For additional freshness, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Can I freeze the cookie dough or the baked cookies?
Certainly! For freezing, scoop the shaped cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, baked cookies can also be frozen in a single layer, then stored, and will taste freshly made after reheating!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
If your cookie dough turns out too dry, don’t worry! Gradually add a tablespoon of orange juice or water until the dough reaches a cohesive and soft consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once; you want it just moist enough to hold together without being sticky.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! If you’re catering to someone with a nut allergy, simply omit the chopped pecans or walnuts from the recipe. You can replace them with seeds or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version that’s still delicious!
Can these cookies be made vegan?
Absolutely! To make your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies vegan, substitute the large egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for about 5 minutes until thickened, and use it in place of the egg in the recipe. Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to keep the cookies completely vegan!
Creamy Monster Mac and Cheese for Epic Comfort Food Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg, orange juice, and zest. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients.
- Fold in chopped cranberries, white chocolate chips, and nuts gently.
- Scoop portions of dough, roll into balls, and place on baking sheets.
- Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle with orange glaze.
