The holiday season inspires us to bake delicious treats that fill our homes with warmth and joy. One such treat is the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies. These delightful cookies combine the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, creating a symphony of flavors perfect for any festive gathering. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or enjoying a sweet treat at home, these cookies are sure to impress.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 90mg
Why Make This Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are a festive treat that encapsulates the spirit of the holidays. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors not only look beautiful on a cookie platter but also bring a burst of cheer to every bite. The combination of sweet dried cranberries and fresh orange zest gives these cookies a tangy zest, while the nuts add a lovely crunch. They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, making them a fantastic addition to your holiday baking list. Plus, they are simple to make, making even novice bakers feel like pros!
How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden edge.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process aerates the butter, helping your cookies rise beautifully. Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Cooking
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, or your cookies may turn out tough. Fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, the zest of 1 orange, and, if you like, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
Step 4: Finishing
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave some space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
These cookies are fantastic on their own or with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. Arrange them on a festive plate for a holiday gathering, or package them in decorative bags for thoughtful homemade gifts. They also pair wonderfully with ice cream, creating a delightful dessert experience.
How to Store Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, add an extra teaspoon of orange zest.
- For a subtle sweetness, try replacing some of the sugar with brown sugar.
- Using fresh orange juice in addition to zest can enhance the flavor.
- Experiment with different nuts or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich contrast.
- Spiced Cranberry Cookies: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are much more tart and contain more moisture, so if you choose to use them, consider adding a bit more sugar to balance the flavor. -
What if I don’t have orange zest?
If you can’t find fresh oranges, a splash of orange juice can work in a pinch, but the zest adds a more concentrated flavor. -
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before scooping and baking. -
How can I tell when my cookies are done?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges, but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. -
Is it okay to add additional ingredients?
Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate chunks, shredded coconut, or even spices to make the cookies uniquely yours.
Conclusion
The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are not just treats; they are a celebration of flavors that embody the festive spirit. Their bright color, delightful aroma, and perfect balance of sweetness and tang make them an irresistible addition to your holiday baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a batch of these delightful cookies with your loved ones. Happy baking!
Print
Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Total Time: 27
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies combining tart cranberries and zesty orange, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries, orange zest, and nuts (if using).
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Cookies can also be frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
