Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you ask me, the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that brings the festive spirit right into your kitchen. With the bright flavors of cranberry and orange combined in each bite, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Their unique combination of sweetness and tartness makes them a standout choice on any dessert table.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cookies
• For the Glaze
• How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
• Step 3: Add Egg and Juices
• Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
• Step 6: Bake the Cookies
• Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
• How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
• With a Glass of Milk
• As Holiday Gifts
• With Coffee or Tea
• On a Dessert Platter
• How to Perfect Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
• Reheating Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe special?
• How do I make these cookies healthier?
• Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?
• How should I store leftover cookies?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute holiday treat.
• Festive Flavor: The blend of cranberries and orange creates a refreshing taste that embodies the essence of Christmas.
• Versatile Treat: Great for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or just as a sweet snack at home.
• Kid-Friendly: Children love helping to make cookies, and this recipe is simple enough for them to participate.
• Perfectly Soft: These cookies come out soft and chewy, ensuring every bite is enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness, gather your tools to ensure an efficient baking experience. Having the right equipment on hand will help you create the best Christmas cranberry orange cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Baking sheets: Using quality baking sheets ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

If you ask me, cranberry and orange are a match made in holiday heaven.

For the Cookies

• 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

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together:
The softened butter,
The sugar,
The brown sugar.

Use an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Juices

Add:
The egg,
The orange juice,
The orange zest.

Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
The flour,
The salt,
The baking soda.

Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in:
The dried cranberries.

This will distribute them evenly throughout your cookie dough.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets. Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While cookies cool, whisk together:
The powdered sugar,
The additional orange juice,
The remaining orange zest.

Drizzle over cooled cookies for a festive touch.

Enjoy your batch of Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Cranberry orange cookies are a delightful treat that can brighten any holiday gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the flavors.

As Holiday Gifts

• Package these cookies in festive boxes or tins. They make wonderful, homemade gifts that friends and family will love.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The citrus notes complement warm beverages beautifully.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter with other holiday treats, such as chocolates and nuts, for an inviting display.

How to Perfect Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Perfecting your cranberry orange cookies is easy with a few tips in mind. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps achieve a creamy texture when mixing, resulting in lighter cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies; they should be soft and tender.
• Chill the dough: For better flavor and texture, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Use fresh orange zest: Fresh zest provides vibrant flavor compared to dried versions, enhancing the overall taste.
• Bake in batches: Bake one tray at a time to ensure even cooking and avoid overcrowding in your oven.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

While these cookies shine on their own, pairing them with some delightful side dishes can create an even more festive atmosphere. Here are some great options.

1. Holiday Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Spiced Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream pairs perfectly with cranberry orange flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for a savory contrast.
4. Gingerbread Men: Classic gingerbread adds another layer of holiday spirit and flavor to your dessert table.
5. Peppermint Bark: This sweet treat offers a crunchy chocolatey contrast that balances well with the citrus notes of the cookies.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: These provide a healthier option that still feels festive and can be enjoyed alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cookies can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls that could ruin your batch. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the texture. Always measure accurately for the best results.
• Softened butter not used: If your butter isn’t softened properly, it won’t cream well with the sugars, leading to dense cookies. Make sure it’s at room temperature.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much during baking. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
• Overbaking: Cookies continue to cook after being removed from the oven. Take them out when they are slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Expired baking soda or old dried cranberries can lead to disappointing flavors. Check your pantry for freshness before you start.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Best consumed within one week for optimal taste.

Freezing Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

• Place cookies in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months without losing quality.

Reheating Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe special?

These cookies combine sweet and tart flavors that perfectly capture the essence of Christmas, making them a festive treat.

How do I make these cookies healthier?

You can substitute half of the butter with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the sugar since fresh cranberries are more tart.

How should I store leftover cookies?

For the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe, keep them in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or different spices to suit your taste. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!