Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful cookie to brighten up your holiday season, then you’ve stumbled upon the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe! There’s something so enchanting about the combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange that just screams festive cheer. These cookies are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. They make for perfect treats during busy weeknights or wonderful gifts for family gatherings.

What I love most is how they fill your kitchen with that warm, welcoming scent of citrus and sweetness. Every bite is like a little burst of holiday spirit! Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make this recipe a regular part of your holiday traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, these cookies are perfect for last-minute baking.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and tangy flavors in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when needed!
• Versatile Treats: Great for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these goodies for a truly festive treat!

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 Glaze

• 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Change the fruit: Substitute cranberries with dried cherries or blueberries for a different flavor twist.
• Make it festive: Add some red and green sprinkles on top of the glaze for a more colorful presentation.
• Switch up the glaze: Try using lemon juice instead of orange for a bright, refreshing change.

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by creaming together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s all nice and creamy.

Step 2: Add Egg and Orange Juice

Next, beat in the egg along with the orange juice and zest. The egg helps bind everything together while adding moisture. The fresh orange juice brings that lovely citrus flavor right into your dough!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. This ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed before they go into your wet mixture. Gradually add this dry mix to your creamy butter mixture until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 4: Fold in Dried Cranberries

Gently fold in those beautiful dried cranberries. This is where the magic happens! The cranberries add sweetness and tartness that perfectly complement the orange.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden at the edges. Keep an eye on them; we want soft cookies!

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While your cookies cool down, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this delightful glaze over cooled cookies for that extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it! Enjoy sharing (or keeping!) these festive Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies this season!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Baking these cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can make them even more enjoyable!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butter and cranberries can significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies. Fresh ingredients ensure a rich taste that frozen or older items might lack.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Gently mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; you want them to be soft and chewy for the best holiday treat.

• Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld together and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

• Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for an extra holiday touch. These spices complement the cranberry and orange beautifully!

• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. They also make great gifts when packed in festive wrapping!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

These lovely cookies can bring cheer to any gathering or simply brighten up your day at home. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that enhances the festive look of your cookies.
• Orange Zest Sprinkle: A sprinkle of fresh orange zest on top not only looks beautiful but also amplifies the citrus flavor, making each bite even more refreshing.

Side Dishes

• Hot Cocoa: This classic drink pairs perfectly with your cookies. The warm chocolate complements the tartness of cranberry, creating a cozy treat.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples, oranges, and pomegranate offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the cookies. Consider adding some nuts or dried fruits for extra texture.
• Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced tea, such as chai or ginger tea, makes for an aromatic pairing that enhances the flavors of your cranberry orange delight.

These serving suggestions will help you create a beautiful spread that everyone will enjoy during this festive season!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats throughout the holiday season without the last-minute baking rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For added freshness, place a slice of bread in the container.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding this festive recipe!

What makes the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe so special?

The combination of tart cranberries and vibrant orange zest creates a refreshing flavor profile that truly embodies the spirit of the holidays. These cookies are not just delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones.

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

While dried cranberries add sweetness and chewiness to these cookies, you can experiment with fresh cranberries. If using fresh, consider adding extra sugar to balance their tartness.

How long do I need to bake the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies?

Bake these cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.

Can I substitute ingredients in this cookie recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute butter with plant-based alternatives or swap out white sugar for coconut sugar. Feel free to adjust according to your dietary preferences while keeping the essence of the recipe intact.

What can I serve with my cranberry orange cookies?

These cookies pair beautifully with hot beverages like tea or coffee. They also make a wonderful addition to any festive dessert platter alongside other holiday treats!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies as I am! The combination of flavors and textures makes them truly special, perfect for sharing with family and friends during this joyful season. Enjoy every moment of baking, and don’t forget to sneak a taste (or two) along the way! Happy baking!