Cranberry Orange Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, zesty flavor of oranges. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as a sweet snack to enjoy at home. Kiwiwell brought all the ingredients, preparation methods, and tips for baking the perfect Cranberry Orange Cookies.
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Cookies
To create these delectable cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 medium orange)
- 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (200 g) fresh or dried cranberries, chopped
For the Orange Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
How to Make Cranberry Orange Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Orange Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and orange zest for the coating. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 4: Add Egg and Zest
Beat in the egg and orange zest until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 6: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold in the chopped cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Shape and Coat Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough balls and roll them in the prepared orange sugar mixture. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh cranberries when possible. If using dried cranberries, consider soaking them in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients with wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep your cookies tender.
- Chill Your Dough: If your kitchen is warm or if you prefer thicker cookies, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
Variations of Cranberry Orange Cookies
Cranberry Orange Cookies can be easily customized:
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Top cooled cookies with a light cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over cooled cookies for a beautiful finish.
Cranberry Orange Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive occasion or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies offer a burst of citrusy goodness with every bite. Try this recipe today and bring some holiday cheer into your kitchen!
