orange cranberry cookie recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best orange cranberry cookie recipe

I’ve been making these orange cranberry cookies for years, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends. They’re perfect for a quick snack or as a dessert for a special occasion. I love how the combination of orange and cranberry flavors creates a sweet and tangy taste that’s hard to resist.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, especially when it comes to mixing and measuring ingredients. They’re also great for packing in lunchboxes or as a healthy after-school snack option. The best part is that they’re relatively easy to make and can be customized with different types of nuts or spices to suit your taste preferences.

The origin of this cookie recipe is unclear, but it’s likely a variation of traditional American cookie recipes that have been passed down through generations. The addition of orange and cranberry gives it a unique twist that sets it apart from other cookie recipes. I’ve experimented with different types of sugar, flour, and spices to create the perfect balance of flavors.

When it comes to making these cookies, I find that using fresh cranberries and real orange zest makes all the difference in terms of flavor and texture. The key home cooking technique is to not overmix the dough, which can result in tough cookies. Instead, mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them gently until just combined.

One of the health benefits of this recipe is that it uses whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, making it a slightly healthier option for those looking for a less processed treat.

Orange Cranberry Cookies

4.8 from 1670 votes

These Orange Cranberry Cookies are a delightful blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange, perfect for a holiday treat or anytime snack. The cookie dough is easy to make and the cookies are soft and chewy with a burst of flavor from the cranberries and orange zest.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 150 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp pure orange extract
Zest of 1 orange
1 cup dried cranberries

For the Orange Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.
4In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
6Beat in the egg, orange extract, and orange zest until well combined.
7The mixture should be smooth and well incorporated.
8Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
9Fold in the dried cranberries.
10Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
11Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
12The centers should still be soft.
13Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
14While the cookies are cooling, prepare the orange glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and orange juice in a small bowl until smooth.
15Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top of each cookie.
16Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.
17Enjoy your Orange Cranberry Cookies.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Wire cooling rack
Small bowl
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 150 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 120mg🌾Total Carbs: 23g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 15g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

Tips: For a chewier cookie, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. For a fun twist, add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the dough.

Watch Video Of How Orange Cranberry Cookies Works

These orange cranberry cookies are always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick snack, a dessert for guests, or even just as a healthy treat for my kids’ lunchboxes.

They’re easy to make and can be customized with different types of nuts or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Plus, they’re relatively easy to store and reheat when needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Cranberry Cookies

What type of sugar should I use in this recipe?

You can use either granulated sugar or brown sugar in this recipe, depending on your personal preference. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, granulated sugar will give you that extra boost. However, if you want a slightly more complex flavor profile, brown sugar is the way to go.

Can I substitute the orange zest with orange extract?

Yes, you can substitute the orange zest with orange extract if you don’t have fresh oranges on hand. However, keep in mind that using extract will change the flavor profile slightly. Start with a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) and adjust to taste.

How do I store these cookies?

You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider storing them in an insulated container or freezer bag.

Can I make these cookies without nuts?

Yes, you can make these cookies without nuts if you have nut allergies or prefer not to include nuts in your baking.

What’s the ideal temperature for baking these cookies?

The ideal temperature for baking these cookies is 375°F (190°C). This will help them bake evenly and prevent burning.

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