Cranberry Orange Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to any gathering, these Cranberry Orange Cookies are just what you need! They’re the perfect blend of buttery shortbread and zesty orange, with chewy bits of cranberries that add a lovely tang. I absolutely love making these cookies for family gatherings or cozy afternoons at home. They’re great for sharing with friends or enjoying with a hot cup of tea.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to whip up. You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you need a sweet treat. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked on their deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Chill the dough and bake whenever you’re ready—perfect for busy days!
• Family-Friendly: These cookies are loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of cranberries and orange zest makes each bite refreshing and unique.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create tasty Cranberry Orange Cookies. Let’s gather everything you’ll need!

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (scoop and level method)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped dried cranberries (packed)
• 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest (from 2-3 oranges)

For Sprinkling (Optional)

• ½ cup sugar for sprinkling on cookies
• Extra orange zest for sprinkling on cookies

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Use Different Dried Fruits: Swap cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for a different flavor profile.
• Infuse with Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.
• Chocolate Chips: Include dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!

How to Make Cranberry Orange Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the flour and salt in a bowl. This step ensures even distribution of the salt throughout your cookie dough.

Step 2: Cream Together

Cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and orange zest in your stand mixer (or with a hand mixer) until light and fluffy—about 1 ½ minutes. This process incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies tender.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until well combined. These ingredients add richness and enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients gradually. Mix just until everything is combined; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries. They will provide delightful bursts of flavor in every bite!

Step 6: Shape the Logs

Roll your dough into two equally sized logs, about 8 inches long and 1 ¾ inches in diameter. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours (or up to several days). Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Preheat Your Oven

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325° F and position an oven rack in the middle. Preheating ensures even baking.

Step 8: Slice Time!

Once chilled, slice the cookie logs into about 1/3 inch circles using a sharp serrated knife with a gentle sawing motion. This technique helps achieve clean edges.

Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place your cookie slices about an inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle them lightly with sugar if desired—a little sweetness goes a long way!

Step 10: Bake Your Cookies

For crisper cookies, bake for about 13 minutes until bottoms turn golden; if you prefer softer cookies, pull them out around 12 minutes when set but not golden yet.

Step 11: Add Some Sparkle

As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle them again with sugar for that charming sparkle!

Step 12: Cooling Time

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about three minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This step allows them to firm up slightly.

Step 13: Final Touches

Before serving, I love sprinkling freshly grated orange zest over the cooled cookies—it adds an extra layer of citrusy goodness!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Cranberry Orange Cookies ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Orange Cookies

Baking can be a joyful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can make your cranberry orange cookies even better!

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures that the butter incorporates well with the sugars, leading to a tender cookie texture.
• Chill the dough: Chilling allows the flavors to meld and helps prevent spreading during baking. The longer you chill, the better the flavor!
• Slice carefully: Using a sharp serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion will help you achieve clean edges, making your cookies look more professional and appealing.
• Experiment with baking times: Each oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake, adjusting the time slightly based on your desired level of crispness.
• Add extra zest before serving: Sprinkling freshly grated orange zest on top right before serving enhances the citrus aroma and adds a beautiful finishing touch.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cookies

These delightful cranberry orange cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea. Presenting them beautifully can elevate their appeal!

Garnishes

• Freshly grated orange zest: A sprinkle of this vibrant garnish not only adds color but also amplifies the bright citrus flavor.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar gives these cookies a charming, elegant finish that makes them look festive.

Side Dishes

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea complements the zesty flavor of these cookies perfectly. Try chamomile or peppermint for soothing combinations.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies and adds a burst of freshness.
• Cheese platter: Pairing these cookies with mild cheeses like Brie or cream cheese creates an interesting sweet-and-savory contrast that’s sure to impress.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a wholesome side that contrasts nicely with the buttery texture of the cookies.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious cranberry orange cookies—they’re sure to become a beloved treat in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the dough ahead of time, store it, and have freshly baked cookies whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to two weeks.

Freezing

• To freeze cookie dough, wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.
• You can also freeze baked cookies. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, pop the thawed cookies in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Orange Cookies:

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried in my Cranberry Orange Cookies?

While fresh cranberries add a delightful tartness, they contain more moisture than dried cranberries. If you choose to use fresh, consider reducing other liquid ingredients slightly or using less than the recommended amount.

How do I ensure my Cranberry Orange Cookies stay soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. Take them out of the oven when they’re set but not turning golden on the edges. Also, storing them in an airtight container helps maintain their tenderness.

Can I substitute butter with margarine in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine if needed. However, this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.

How long do these cranberry orange cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in baking these Cranberry Orange Cookies as I do! Their tender texture combined with the bright flavors of cranberries and oranges make them truly special. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!