Why Make This Recipe
Orange Cranberry Cookies are a delightful treat that balance the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries with the bright zest of orange. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just as a sweet snack during the week. They are a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of the season and fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma. The combination of ingredients is not only delicious but also easy to follow, making this an accessible recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
How to Make Orange Cranberry Cookies
Making Orange Cranberry Cookies is a straightforward process. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can have a batch of delicious cookies ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into the details.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by preheating your oven so it’s ready for the cookies as soon as your dough is mixed.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is crucial for proper rising.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step. You want a light and fluffy texture.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. These ingredients not only add flavor but also help with the cookie’s moisture.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Fold in the orange zest and dried cranberries. This is where the fun begins! The orange zest will give a wonderful fragrance and taste, while the cranberries will provide a lovely chewiness.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps the cookies firm up a bit and makes transferring easier.
How to Serve Orange Cranberry Cookies
These cookies are great on their own, but you can also serve them in a variety of ways. Consider placing them on a festive platter for a holiday gathering. Pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee can make for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a fantastic dessert option for parties, alongside ice cream or a fruit salad.
How to Store Orange Cranberry Cookies
To keep your Orange Cranberry Cookies fresh after baking, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last up to a week, although they are best enjoyed within the first few days when they are still soft and chewy. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag and they can last for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Tips to Make Orange Cranberry Cookies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened (not melted) for the best texture. Using fresh cranberries, if available, can also enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can result in dense cookies instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Taste the Dough: Feel free to taste the cookie dough before baking; just make sure there are no raw eggs present if you’re concerned about safety.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: If you enjoy nuts, add some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Experiment with Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm depth to the flavor of the cookies.
Variation
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:
- Chocolate Chips: Add half a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet and chocolatey twist.
- Oatmeal Version: Substitute some of the flour with oats to create a chewy oatmeal cookie version.
- Glazed Cookies: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Use Fresh Cranberries: If it’s the right season, try using fresh cranberries instead of dried ones for a more tart flavor.
FAQs
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
You’ll know the cookies are done when the edges are golden brown. The centers might look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but keep in mind it may affect the flavor and texture of the cookies slightly.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.
Why is my cookie dough dry?
If your cookie dough turns out dry, it might be due to too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly by using the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly with measuring cups.
Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the joy of baking with this Orange Cranberry Cookies recipe!
Print
Orange Cranberry Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies that balance the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries with the bright zest of orange, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the orange zest and dried cranberries.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg