cranberry orange cookie recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best cranberry orange cookie recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite cookie recipes – the cranberry orange cookie recipe. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I just can’t get enough of it.

The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the perfect balance of textures, makes it a true delight for the senses. My kids just love helping me in the kitchen to make these cookies, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!)

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make and how versatile it is – perfect for snacking, gift-giving, or even as a special treat for holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving. Plus, with the added bonus of using fresh cranberries and orange zest, you’ll be getting a dose of antioxidants and a boost of citrus flavor that will leave everyone feeling uplifted.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is that it’s so adaptable – whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for a birthday party or a healthy snack for school lunches, this cookie recipe is sure to please. And let’s not forget about the beautiful colors and presentation – who wouldn’t want to display these gorgeous cookies on their holiday table or at a potluck dinner?

But what really sets this recipe apart is the technique involved in making these cookies – from the tender crumb to the perfectly balanced flavors, it’s all about achieving that perfect harmony between sweetness and tartness. And let me tell you, after years of perfecting this recipe, I’ve finally figured out the secret to making them truly exceptional: using high-quality ingredients like fresh cranberries and real orange zest.

It may seem like a small detail, but trust me when I say that it makes all the difference in the world.

Cranberry Orange Cookies

4.9 from 694 votes

These soft and chewy cookies combine tart dried cranberries with bright citrus zest for a delightful treat. Perfect for holiday baking or a simple afternoon snack, they offer a balanced sweetness with a hint of orange flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time12 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time27 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons orange zest
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups dried cranberries

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
3In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4Add the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, then beat until well incorporated.
5Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6Fold in the dried cranberries with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.
9Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes.
10Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Wire cooling rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 95mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For a stronger orange flavor, add an extra teaspoon of orange zest. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Watch Video Of How Cranberry Orange Cookies Works

These cranberry orange cookies are truly a treat that will never go out of style – whether you’re looking for a healthy snack option or simply want to indulge in something deliciously sweet and tangy, this recipe delivers every time! One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily they can be customized to suit any occasion or taste preference – need something special for Easter?

Add some pastel-colored sprinkles! Want something festive for Christmas?

Try adding some red velvet crumbs! And when it comes to storing them?

Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stash them away until ready to devour again (just be sure not to forget where you put them!)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Cookies

1. What is the best way to store cranberry orange cookies?

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

2. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

While you can use dried cranberries as a substitute, keep in mind that they will give your cookies a slightly different flavor profile.

3. How do I ensure my cookies are evenly baked?

To achieve evenly baked cookies, rotate your baking sheet halfway through baking time and check for doneness by checking the edges – they should be lightly golden brown.

4. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can make dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

5. What if I don’t have orange zest? Can I use lemon zest instead?

While lemon zest would be delicious in its own right, using orange zest gives these cookies their unique flavor profile – if you don’t have any on hand, feel free to experiment with other citrus zests but keep in mind that results may vary.

6. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent excessive spreading.

Similar Posts