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Home » Recipe Index » Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

August 22, 2025 by Jacqueline

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If you ask me, the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is the perfect festive treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of orange. These cookies are not only delightful to eat but also make for beautiful gifts during the holiday season. Their vibrant colors and delicious taste will charm your family and friends, making them a must-have for Christmas gatherings or cozy winter evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cranberry and orange creates a refreshing taste that is distinctly festive.
  • Perfect for Gifting: These cookies look lovely on any dessert table and make great edible gifts during the holidays.
  • Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies with coffee or tea, or serve them at parties as a delightful dessert.
  • Quick Bake Time: With only 8 minutes in the oven, you can whip up these treats in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly for a consistent batter.
  • Baking sheet: Using a good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking, preventing burnt bottoms.

Ingredients

If you ask me, cranberry and orange are a match made in holiday heaven.

For the Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 cups dried cranberries

For the Glaze

  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in the dried cranberries. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon:
– Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 8 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl:
1. Combine powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled cookies once they are completely cool.

Now you have delightful Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing during the holiday season. They offer a refreshing combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange, making them an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

With a Glass of Milk

  • A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their flavor.

On a Festive Platter

  • Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter with some seasonal decorations for a beautiful presentation at holiday parties.

As Party Favors

  • Package individual cookies in festive bags for guests to take home as sweet reminders of your gathering.

With Coffee or Tea

  • Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite warm beverage for a comforting afternoon snack.
Best

How to Perfect Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

  • Use room temperature butter: This helps create a smooth dough and ensures even mixing with other ingredients.
  • Chill the dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes can enhance texture and flavor.
  • Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off to prevent dense cookies.
  • Don’t overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when edges are slightly golden; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
  • Add zest generously: Extra orange zest can elevate the citrus flavor, making your cookies more aromatic and tasty.

Best Side Dishes for Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

These cookies pair beautifully with various side dishes that can round out your holiday spread. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Cheese platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, enhances the sweet and tart flavors of the cookies.
  2. Fruit salad: Fresh fruits like apples or pears can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich taste of cranberry orange cookies.
  3. Spiced nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and warmth, complementing the festive flavors of your cookie recipe.
  4. Yule log cake: This traditional dessert adds a touch of elegance and is perfect for holiday celebrations.
  5. Mini quiches: These savory treats offer a delightful balance to the sweetness of your cookies.
  6. Hot cocoa station: Set up a hot cocoa bar with toppings like whipped cream and marshmallows to create a cozy atmosphere.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for.

  • Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t cream well with sugar, resulting in dense cookies. Always use softened butter for a light texture.
  • Not measuring flour properly: Packing flour into the measuring cup can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
  • Skipping the zest: Orange zest is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip it; it enhances the cookie’s aroma and taste significantly.
  • Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a tender result.
  • Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and take them out when they’re slightly golden around the edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store cookies in an airtight container.
  • They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

  • Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
  • Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
  • Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie for about 30 seconds on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe, you’re in the right place. Here are some common inquiries.

Can I substitute fresh cranberries?

You can use fresh cranberries, but they may change the texture and sweetness of your cookies slightly. If you do, consider adding a bit more sugar.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

What if I don’t have orange zest?

If you don’t have orange zest, you can use lemon zest as an alternative. It will give your cookies a different but delightful flavor.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would pair nicely with cranberry and orange flavors. Just mix them into the dough before baking.

Final Thoughts

The Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that capture the essence of the holiday season. Their bright taste makes them perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family nights. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or adjusting sugar levels to match your preference!

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Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
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Indulge in the festive delight of the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe. These scrumptious cookies beautifully blend the tartness of dried cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, creating a treat that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. With their vibrant colors and delicious flavors, these cookies are not only a joy to eat but also make charming gifts during the festive season. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them on a cozy winter evening, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.

  • Author: Jacqueline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 cups dried cranberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream together butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
  3. Add egg, orange juice, and orange zest; mix until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually incorporate into the wet mixture until just combined.
  5. Gently fold in the dried cranberries.
  6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
  7. Bake for about 8 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool briefly on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
  8. Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest; drizzle over cooled cookies.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: <1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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