Soft Cranberry Orange Cookies for Festive Christmas Baking

Soft Cranberry Orange Cookies are a delightful treat for your festive Christmas baking. I remember the first time my daughter Lily helped me make these cookies; she was so excited to mix the bright orange zest with the tart cranberries. It’s a memory I cherish, and I hope these cookies bring joy to your family too.

Why You’ll Love It

• They’re soft and chewy with a burst of flavor.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.
• The combination of cranberry and orange is simply irresistible.

Pure Comfort

These cookies are pure comfort, bringing warmth and cheer to your holiday season. The sweet and tangy flavors remind you of cozy family gatherings and festive cheer.

What You Need

• 1 cup 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks) – Can substitute with margarine for dairy-free.
• 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar – Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
• 1 1 large egg – Use a flax egg for vegan option.
• 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon orange zest – Fresh zest gives the best flavor.
• 2 cups 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g) – Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
• 1 tsp 1 teaspoon baking soda – Ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste if using salted butter.
• 1 cup 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries – Dried cranberries are sweeter; adjust sugar accordingly.
• 1/2 cup 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting – Optional, for a festive touch.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 12 minutes | Total: 27 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to get those cookies soft and chewy.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and airy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the egg and orange zest to the mixture, beating until well combined. The aroma of orange will fill your kitchen, making it feel festive.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent for perfect cookies.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough.
6. Fold in the cranberries gently. You’ll see the bright red pop against the dough, making it look so inviting.
7. Scoop tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They’ll spread a little, so give them room.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and the cookies should be soft in the center.
9. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them firm up just a bit for easier handling.

Make It Perfect

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.
• If you want a little crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts into the dough.
• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results.

Mix It Up

• Try adding white chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Substitute cranberries with chopped cherries for a different flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice note.

Perfect Partners

• These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea.
• Serve them alongside a festive cheese platter for a sweet and savory combo.
• They also make a great addition to any holiday dessert table.

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FAQs

Conclusion

These Soft Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for your festive Christmas baking. With their delightful flavors and soft texture, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy making memories in the kitchen as you whip up these delicious Xmas cookies!

Soft Cranberry Orange Cookies for Festive Christmas Baking

Soft Cranberry Orange Cookies are chewy, flavorful treats perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining tart cranberries and bright orange zest, these cookies bring warmth and festive cheer to your family’s celebrations.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened (2 sticks), can substitute with margarine for dairy-free
• 1 cup granulated sugar brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor
• 1 large egg use a flax egg for vegan option
• 1 tbsp orange zest fresh zest gives the best flavor
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g), whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option
• 1 tsp baking soda ensure it’s fresh for best results
• 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste if using salted butter
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries dried cranberries are sweeter; adjust sugar accordingly
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting, optional

Equipment

• Oven
• Large bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the egg and orange zest to the mixture, beating until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the cranberries gently.
7. Scoop tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.