Name: Irresistibly Soft Cranberry Orange Cookies for the Holidays
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar); 1 large egg (or flax egg); 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (or lemon juice); 1 tablespoon grated orange zest; 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 0.5 teaspoon baking powder (ensure freshness); 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (essential for texture); 0.25 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried cranberries (or fresh, well-dried); 0.5 cup white chocolate chips (optional, or dark chocolate); 0.5 cup chopped nuts (optional); powdered sugar (mix with orange juice)

As I walked through the bustling holiday market, the sweet, tangy scent of fresh cranberries and oranges danced through the air, evoking the spirit of the season. That magical combination inspired me to create these Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies, a delightful treat that captures everything we love about festive baking. These cookies are not only easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gift-giving or cookie exchanges, but they also boast a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress your friends and family. With their delicate crisp exterior and soft buttery center, these Cranberry Orange Cookies are the ultimate holiday comfort food. Ready to bring a little cheer to your kitchen? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Irresistible Flavor: Cranberries and fresh orange zest meld beautifully, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.

Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, so even beginner bakers can enjoy success.

Perfect for Gifting: These cookies shine in festive packaging, making them an excellent choice for holiday gifts or cookie exchanges.

Versatile Add-ins: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or chocolate to customize the flavor profile, like our Chocolate Chip Cookies variation!

Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about their unique taste—no one will want just one!

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep for holiday gatherings by freezing dough in advance, ensuring you have these delights ready when needed!

Cranberry Orange Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Unsalted Butter – 1 cup (227g) provides richness and moisture; swap for vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – 1 cup (200g) adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture; consider brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Large Egg – 1 acts as a binder for structure; you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
Fresh Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons (30ml) adds moisture and a burst of flavor; lemon juice can be a zesty substitute.
Grated Orange Zest – 1 tablespoon heightens the citrus flavor; feel free to add more for an extra kick!
All-Purpose Flour – 2.5 cups (300g) gives structure to the cookies; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
Baking Powder – 1/2 teaspoon helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Baking Soda – 1/2 teaspoon is necessary for proper leavening; essential for that perfect soft center.
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon balances the sweetness effectively.
Dried Cranberries – 1 cup (120g) adds tanginess; fresh ones can be used too, but dry well to avoid excess moisture.
White Chocolate Chips – 1/2 cup (85g) are optional; substitute with dark chocolate for a less sweet treat.
Chopped Nuts – 1/2 cup (60g) adds a delightful crunch; any preferred nut can be substituted for personal taste.

For the Optional Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Mix with orange juice for a lovely drizzle that enhances the cookies’ festive flair.

These Cranberry Orange Cookies will surely become a holiday favorite, bursting with flavor and joy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies don’t stick while baking, allowing for easy removal and a beautifully shaped finish.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy, appearing pale and airy—this crucial step adds texture to your cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, and 1 tablespoon of grated orange zest to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until all ingredients are well combined and smooth, taking care to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even distribution of flavors in your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Combine until just incorporated, being careful not to over-mix, which can result in denser cookies.

Step 5: Mix in the Cranberries
Gently fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, and any optionally added ingredients like white chocolate chips or chopped nuts, if desired. Ensure the mix is evenly distributed throughout the dough to guarantee every bite of your Cranberry Orange Cookies is bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of cookie dough and roll them into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets, ensuring enough space for spreading as they bake. This step helps maintain the shape of your cookies while keeping them soft in the center.

Step 7: Bake and Monitor Doneness
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for a golden edge while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy; this contrast is key to achieving that perfect texture of your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Once the cookies are done baking, let them cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack. If you’re feeling festive, drizzle with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice after they’ve cooled completely.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Orange Cookies are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing everything through step 5, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain their delightful freshness, avoid adding the cranberries until just before baking. When you’re ready to indulge, simply scoop and bake the chilled dough straight from the refrigerator, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if necessary. This method ensures that your cookies are just as delicious and festive when it’s time to serve, making your busy holiday schedule a little more manageable!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer lifespan, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 7 days, ensuring they stay fresh; just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months; wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying these festive Cranberry Orange Cookies.

Cookie Dough Storage: You can also freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Shape it into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for future baking convenience!

Cranberry Orange Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these scrumptious cookies, letting your culinary imagination shine through!

Nut-Free: Replace chopped nuts with extra dried cranberries or sunflower seeds for crunch without allergens.
Vegan: Use a flax egg and vegan butter to make this recipe entirely plant-based while still maintaining that beloved richness.
Zestier Flavor: Swap out the orange zest for grapefruit zest for a fresh, tangy explosion that’s different yet delightful.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to the batter for a warming spice that will elevate your Cranberry Orange Cookies.
Chewy Texture: For a chewier cookie, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, adding a nutty dimension.
Chocolate Lovers: For an indulgent twist, fold in dark chocolate chunks instead of or alongside white chocolate chips. This pairing brings an amazing depth of flavor.
Beautiful Variations: Drizzle a chocolate glaze instead of an orange glaze for a different yet equally delightful finish—impressing friends with an elegant touch!
Holiday Twist: Add a hint of peppermint extract for a festive vibe, bringing the spirit of the season into every bite.

Need more ideas? Check out our delightful Nantucket Holiday Cranberry for craftiness or indulge in Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for holiday cheer! Enjoy the excitement of exploring these variations and making this recipe truly yours!

What to Serve with Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Imagine a cozy gathering filled with delightful aromas and cheerful faces, where each bite of these cookies brings warmth and joy.

Hot Cocoa: Perfectly luxuriant, its rich chocolate flavor complements the sweet and tangy notes of the cookies, creating a cozy pairing reminiscent of winter evenings.
Spiced Tea: The warm spices enhance the festive vibes, making every sip a comforting companion to the bright flavors of cranberry and orange.
Cranberry Sauce: Add an extra layer of tangy-sweet flavor to your cookie experience with a dollop of homemade cranberry sauce on the side.

A delightful surprise that takes the traditional pairing to a new level!

Roasted Nuts: The crunchy texture of roasted nuts adds a satisfying contrast, while their savory notes balance the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
Cheese Platter: Creamy Brie or tangy goat cheese creates an elegant contrast to the sweetness of cranberry orange cookies, elevating your dessert experience.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This holiday classic brings a refreshing minty twist that harmonizes beautifully with the orange zest in your cookies, creating a festive treat.
Walnut Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies add layers of decadent chocolate flavor, creating a rich contrast that holiday guests will appreciate.
Gingerbread Men: Combining spices with sweet citrus deepens the holiday essence, making your cookie spread an irresistible feast.

Creating delightful pairings enriches the experience of enjoying these Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies, making them an unforgettable holiday treat!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, leading to light and fluffy cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to avoid dense cookies. Overmixing can develop gluten, making them tougher.
Chop Cranberries: For even distribution of flavor, chop your dried cranberries. Whole cranberries may clump together and will not provide the flavor burst you desire.
Adjust Dough Consistency: If your dough seems too soft, chill it in the fridge for about 20 minutes. This will help maintain their shape while baking.
Test Freshness: Always check that your baking powder is fresh for proper leavening. Stale baking powder can result in flat cookies.
Customize Add-ins: Feel free to add or substitute chocolate chips or nuts to enhance your Cranberry Orange Cookies and make them your own!

Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe FAQs

How should I select cranberries for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for dried cranberries that are plump and don’t have dark spots or a hard texture. If you’re using fresh cranberries instead, choose ones that are bright and firm, avoiding any with soft spots or blemishes. For even flavor distribution, I often recommend chopping the cranberries before adding them to the dough.

What’s the best way to store my Cranberry Orange Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and fluffy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a longer storage method, they can also be kept refrigerated for up to 7 days—just remember to return them to room temperature before serving to enjoy their delightful softness!

Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze baked cookies! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature. You can also freeze the cookie dough itself for up to 3 months. To do this, shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

What if my cookie dough is too soft?
If you’re finding your dough is softer than anticipated, don’t despair! Chill it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before baking. This simple step helps firm the dough, allowing your cookies to maintain their shape while baking, ensuring that soft, tender center you expect from these Cranberry Orange Cookies.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
It’s always a good idea to check for allergies! This recipe contains common allergens such as butter (dairy), eggs, and possible nut add-ins. If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute unsalted butter for vegan butter, the egg for a flax egg, and ensure any nuts you use are safe for their diet. Just a friendly reminder to always communicate with your guests about the ingredients!

How long does the orange glaze last once made?
The orange glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. If it thickens, simply stir in a small amount of orange juice to reach your desired consistency before drizzling it on your cookies. Enjoy the zesty touch!

Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe FAQs