There’s something inherently joyful about baking during the holiday season, especially when it comes to making Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies. This delightful recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, creating cookies that are not just delicious but also radiate that festive spirit. I remember the first time I baked these cookies with my family; the aroma wafting through our home became an instant memory. They’re perfect for sharing at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or even as a sweet treat after a cozy meal with loved ones.
Why you’ll love this dish
These cookies aren’t just another holiday dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures. With their chewy interiors and slight crispness on the edges, these treats are both comforting and indulgent. They’re perfect for family gatherings, filling your home with delicious scents and smiles. Additionally, they come together quickly and require ingredients that are often already in your pantry, making them a stress-free addition to your holiday baking list.
"These cookies were a hit at our holiday party! The balance of sweet and tart is absolutely perfect."
The cooking process explained
Making Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies is a delightful endeavor that’s easier than you might think. You’ll start by creaming together softened butter and sugars, creating a sweet, creamy base. As you incorporate eggs and vanilla, you’ll blend in the dry ingredients to form a lovely dough. Finally, you’ll fold in the cranberries and orange zest, which adds not just flavor, but also beautiful color.
What you’ll need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients that will yield about 24 cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup orange zest (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
If you’re looking to make substitutions, you could use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a twist, or gluten-free flour to make them gluten-free!
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest, and any nuts if you choose to add them.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto ungreased baking sheets (you can use parchment paper for easier cleanup).
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are wonderful served warm, perhaps with a cup of tea or hot cocoa. You can elevate your presentation by placing them on a festive platter alongside other holiday cookies. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or icing drizzle could also bring a touch of elegance. For those feeling adventurous, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delicious contrast with the chewy texture.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.
Pro chef tips
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to intensify the flavors and achieve a better texture!
- For a delightful twist, try adding some orange juice or zest to the frosting if you choose to glaze them.
- Be sure to use good quality vanilla extract; it truly enhances the flavor of the cookies.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients! You could swap out the cranberries for tart cherries or add white chocolate chips for a richer flavor. For the nuts, try slivered almonds or pecans for a different crunch. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
The preparation time is around 15-20 minutes, and they bake in just 10-12 minutes. You can whip them up in a flash!
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dough.
How do I know if my cookies are done?
Look for a golden edge, but soft center. They’ll continue to cook on the pan after you take them out, so you want to catch them while they’re just turning golden.
Can I make these cookies in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.
With every bite, these Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are sure to bring joy and the spirit of the season to your table. Happy baking!
Print
Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies combining tart cranberries and zesty orange, perfect for holiday festivities.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup orange zest (freshly grated)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest, and any nuts if using.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American