The holiday season brings with it a wave of nostalgia, filled with the aroma of warm spices and sugar-dusted treats. As the winter air bites at our cheeks, what could be more comforting than a batch of freshly baked cookies? Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies not only fill your home with an inviting scent but also spark joy with every delightful bite.
Why make this recipe?
These cookies are like a hug in dessert form, combining the sweet tartness of dried cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange. They’re perfectly chewy, with a hint of warmth from the spices, making them an ideal addition to your holiday cookie platter or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Plus, whipping these cookies up is a fun way to involve the entire family in holiday baking, creating memories that will last long after the cookies have been devoured.
How to make Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this is where the magic will happen.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This forms the base of your cookies and helps create that chewier texture.
- In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Trust me, this is where you’ll start dreaming of those warm cookies on the counter.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest—all the flavors that will make your treats sing together.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until everything is just combined. The dough will be soft and promising!
- Stir in the dried cranberries, nuts if you choose to include them, and a splash of fresh orange juice. Each ingredient brings a twist of festive excitement.
- Drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for these little delights to spread.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, but don’t worry if they look a bit underbaked—chewy is the name of the game!
- Let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Patience is key; the wait is worth it.
How to serve Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
These cookies shine when served fresh out of the oven, with a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate to complement their delightful flavors. They also make a charming addition to any holiday dessert table, arranged on a festive platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that extra touch of magic.
How to store Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
To keep the chewyness intact, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week, but I doubt they’ll be around for that long! You can also freeze the dough—just scoop the individual cookie portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake them straight from the freezer for fresh cookies anytime.
Tips to make Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened; it should be at room temperature to cream properly with the sugars, giving you that light texture.
- Try to not overmix once you incorporate the dry ingredients; this helps maintain their chewy consistency.
- If you like a burst of citrus, feel free to increase the amount of orange zest—every holiday should be lively and refreshing!
Variations
For a nutty crunch, add toasted pecans or walnuts. You can also swap out the dried cranberries for cherries or blueberries, creating a delightful twist on flavor. For an even more festive touch, throw in some white chocolate chips!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries?
While fresh cranberries can give a tart flavor, they have a high moisture content, which can alter the texture of the cookies. Dried cranberries work best.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can use a vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version, but be aware that it may change the texture slightly, so experiment with it first!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for later use. This makes it easy to have fresh cookies whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Unwrap the joy of the holiday season one chewy cookie at a time. These Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for sharing but even better for savoring during your own cozy moments. May your celebrations be filled with sweetness, warmth, and delightful flavors that bring everyone closer together. Happy baking!
Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the dried cranberries, nuts, and orange juice.
- Drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.