Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

There is nothing quite like cookies that perfectly embody the spirit of the holidays, and these Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are just that. They harmoniously blend the bright and tangy flavor of cranberries with refreshing orange zest and juice for a truly festive treat. With a tender, buttery base enriched by the warmth of cinnamon and the optional crunch of walnuts, these cookies are sure to become a beloved addition to your holiday baking traditions.

You will fall in love with the way tart cranberries punctuate the sweet, soft cookie, carried on a subtle citrus breeze from the orange. Finished with a delicate orange glaze that adds shine and extra zing, these cookies are both delicious and visually stunning perfect for gifting or sharing with family and friends during the festive season.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup white sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chopped cranberries
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
• 3 tablespoons orange juice
• ½ teaspoon grated orange zest

How to Create Your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy and light. Add the egg, followed by the orange juice and grated orange zest, mixing well to combine these festive flavors into the batter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring that everything is just combined to avoid overmixing, which could make the cookies tough.

Step 3: Fold in the Cranberries and Walnuts

Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and walnuts if using. These add a burst of tartness and texture that perfectly complement the sweet dough.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step helps the flavors meld and improves the dough’s handling, ensuring the cookies bake evenly.

Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

Step 6: Portion and Bake

Scoop the chilled dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop and place on the baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between cookies. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set.

Step 7: Prepare the Orange Glaze

While the cookies bake, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, orange juice, and grated orange zest in a small bowl until smooth and thick enough to drizzle.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cool, drizzle the orange glaze over the cookies using a spoon or a piping bag for a festive finishing touch.

My Best Tips for These Cranberry Orange Cookies

Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients

Fresh orange juice and zest provide the brightest, most natural citrus flavor. Always zest before juicing to make the most of the orange’s oils.

Don’t Skimp on Chilling

Chilling the dough is essential. It prevents excessive spreading during baking and allows the cranberries to infuse the dough with their tartness.

Handle the Cranberries Gently

Avoid mashing cranberries when mixing them in. Keep the pieces intact to provide bursts of juicy tartness inside each cookie.

Choose Walnuts or Skip Them

Walnuts add lovely texture, but you can omit them or substitute with pecans or almonds, depending on your preference or allergies.

Use Parchment Paper

Parchment-lined trays prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. They also help achieve a crisp bottom on your cookies.

Delicious Variations to Try

White Chocolate Drizzle

Add white chocolate drizzle or chips for a sweet, creamy contrast to the tart cranberries.

Use Dried Cranberries

Substitute dried cranberries if fresh aren’t available. Soak them briefly in orange juice for added flavor.

Add Spices

For extra warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon, ground ginger, or nutmeg to the dough.

Add Seeds for Crunch

Mix in a tablespoon of chia, flax, or sunflower seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Make Bars Instead of Cookies

Press the dough into a lined pan and bake as bars. Drizzle glaze over cut squares.

FAQs

How should I store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze glazed or unglazed cookies in freezer-safe bags.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen cranberries well before adding to the dough to avoid excess moisture.

Can I substitute orange juice with another citrus?

Lemon or lime juice can be used but will alter the flavor profile slightly.

How do I prevent glaze from being too runny?

Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more confectioners’ sugar if it’s too thin or more juice if too thick.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

How do I soften butter quickly for the dough?

Cut butter into smaller cubes and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or soften gently in the microwave in short bursts on low power.

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