Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe, you’ve found it! These cookies are a delightful blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange, making them perfect for holiday celebrations. Their vibrant flavors and festive colors add a cheerful touch to any cookie platter. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, holiday parties, or just for yourself, these cookies will surely impress anyone who takes a bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tangy cranberries and refreshing orange zest creates a deliciously unique flavor that stands out during the holidays.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are ideal for various occasions, from Christmas parties to cozy winter nights at home.
- Perfect Gift Idea: Pack them in a festive tin or box to share with friends and family as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Quick Baking Time: With only 8 minutes in the oven, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients without spills.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together, achieving a light texture.
- Baking sheet: A high-quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents cookies from 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).
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream them together until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg and Juices
Add the egg, orange juice, and orange zest to the creamed mixture. Mix until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just incorporated.
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold in the dried cranberries using a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes or until edges are golden. Allow cooling slightly on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: Prepare Glaze (Optional)
For an extra touch, mix powdered sugar with orange juice and zest in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving.
Enjoy your freshly baked Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies as part of your holiday festivities!
How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing during the festive season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, serving these cookies can add a special touch to your Christmas celebrations.
With Hot Beverages
- Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee pairs beautifully with the citrus notes in the cookies.
- Tea: A warm cup of tea enhances the flavors and provides a comforting experience.
- Hot Chocolate: Enjoying these cookies with hot chocolate creates a cozy, indulgent treat.
As Holiday Gifts
- Gift Boxes: Package the cookies in decorative boxes for an easy and thoughtful gift.
- Cookie Jars: Fill jars with layers of cookies for a charming presentation that delights recipients.
- Party Favors: Offer them as favors at holiday parties for guests to take home.
On a Festive Dessert Table
- Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies alongside other sweets for an impressive dessert display.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert.
For Cookie Exchanges
- Unique Contribution: Stand out at cookie exchanges by bringing these unique cranberry orange cookies.
- Recipe Cards: Include recipe cards to share your Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe with others.
How to Perfect Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
To achieve cookie perfection, it’s essential to follow some key tips. These suggestions will ensure your Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe turns out delicious every time.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are fresh; this will enhance taste and texture significantly.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly golden around the edges but soft in the center when done.
- Cool Properly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their shape and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with these festive cookies can elevate your holiday experience. Consider serving these options alongside your Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of cranberry and orange.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide a delightful balance to sweet treats.
- Mini Quiches: These bite-sized savory pastries pair wonderfully with dessert offerings.
- Holiday Punch: A fruity punch enhances the festive atmosphere and pairs well with sweet treats.
- Savory Crackers: Offer an assortment of crackers that provide a salty crunch, balancing out sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls for a perfect batch every time.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature – Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always start with softened butter for a light texture.
- Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender crumb.
- Skipping the zest – Not adding orange zest means missing out on vibrant flavor. Always include it for that zesty kick.
- Incorrect measuring of flour – Too much flour will dry out your cookies. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measuring.
- Forgetting to chill the dough – Chilling helps cookies maintain their shape while baking. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor.
Reheating Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
- Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual cookies on low power for 10-15 seconds for a fresh taste.
- Stovetop – Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming each cookie briefly until soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but you’ll need to adjust sweeteners since they are more tart than dried ones.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden while the centers appear soft. They will continue to set after removing from the oven.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even white chocolate chips for added richness!
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly, they last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it with different add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. These cookies bring warmth and joy during the holiday season, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat that captures the essence of Christmas!
Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Looking for a festive treat to brighten your holiday celebrations? Try the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe! These cookies offer a delightful combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange, making them a standout addition to any cookie platter. With their vibrant colors and cheerful flavors, they are perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or simply indulging yourself. Not only are these cookies easy to make, but they also bake quickly, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness in no time. Whether shared as gifts or savored at home, these cranberry orange delights will surely impress!
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, orange juice, and orange zest until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in dried cranberries gently using a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet and bake for about 8 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 38g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
