Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a festive, flavorful treat to brighten your holiday season, look no further than the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe. These cookies marry the tartness of dried cranberries with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh orange zest and juice, wrapped in a soft but buttery cookie dough. Finished with a glossy orange-infused icing, these cookies are a joyful celebration of classic Christmas flavors that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or simply craving a comforting homemade treat, this recipe hits every note of warmth and cheer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is refreshingly simple, yet each plays a crucial role in the taste and texture of your cookies. From the creamy butter that lends richness, to the vibrant orange zest that wakes up the dough with citrus brightness, every element is essential.

• 1 cup butter, softened: Provides a tender, buttery base for your cookies that melts in your mouth.
• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a soft crumb texture.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
• 2 tablespoons orange juice: Infuses fresh citrus flavor and keeps the dough moist.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Packs in aromatic orange oils for an irresistible scent and taste.
• 2 1/2 cups flour: The foundation that gives the cookies their shape and texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Provides just the right amount of lift for a soft bite.
• 2 cups dried cranberries: Adds bursts of tartness and chewy texture that contrast beautifully with the sweet dough.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Essential for creating a silky-smooth icing that ties the flavors together.
• 3 tablespoons orange juice (for icing): Keeps the icing bright and luscious.
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (for icing): Finishes the glaze with an extra pop of citrus aroma.

How to Make Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s perfectly warm when the time comes to bake. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, a step that ensures your cookies have that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Then, add the egg, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until the mixture is seamless and gloriously fragrant.

Step 2: Combine the Mixtures

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Slowly add this dry combination to your wet ingredients, carefully mixing until a smooth dough forms. This gradual method keeps the dough tender and avoids over-mixing, so your cookies stay soft instead of tough.

Step 3: Add the Cranberries and Shape Cookies

Fold in the dried cranberries with care, ensuring they’re evenly spread throughout the dough so every bite has that satisfying tart pop. Use a tablespoon to drop the dough onto your baking sheets, spacing them so they have room to spread, which helps them bake evenly with those lightly golden edges.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Pop the trays into the oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll want to watch for the edges turning a delicate gold – a sign that they’re perfectly baked but still tender inside. After removing from the oven, let them rest on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to racks to cool. This step helps them firm up without losing softness.

Step 5: Prepare and Drizzle the Icing

While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest for the icing. This glaze is the crowning glory, delivering a sweet, citrus punch that enhances every flavor note in your cookies. Drizzle it generously over each cookie, letting it coat them with glossy happiness.

Step 6: Harden the Icing and Store the Cookies

Allow the icing to set fully – you can speed this up by briefly placing the cookies in the freezer. Once hardened, your cookies will be ready to enjoy or store. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and beautifully soft for days, perfect for holiday gift-giving or cozy winter snacking.

How to Serve Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped candied orange peel or a few whole dried cranberries on top of the glaze makes your cookies look festive and even more inviting. For a subtle crunch, dust lightly with crushed pistachios, which add a stunning green contrast perfect for holiday tablescapes.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm mug of spiced tea, fresh cranberry punch, or a classic hot cocoa topped with whipped cream. The bright flavors in the cookies cut through the richness, creating a balanced taste experience that elevates your holiday gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try artistically stacking your cookies tied with a velvet ribbon, nestled on a rustic wooden board, or arranged in a colorful holiday tin. Another fun idea is serving them alongside a small cheese platter – their sweetness complements sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or creamy brie beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cookies fresher longer by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve the icing’s delicate texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies both before and after icing. For best results, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature to enjoy their full flavor.

Reheating

If you want to revive the fresh-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This breathes life into the buttery dough and softens the icing just enough for a cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried cranberries in this recipe?

Fresh cranberries have a higher moisture content and a much tarter profile, which will affect the cookie’s texture and sweetness. Dried cranberries work best as they provide concentrated flavor and chewiness without adding extra moisture.

Is it possible to use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice and zest?

While you can substitute orange extract, fresh juice and zest give a brighter, more natural citrus flavor that’s essential for this recipe’s festive character. If using extract, reduce quantities carefully to avoid overpowering the dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum, you can create a gluten-free version that still offers excellent texture and taste.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days at room temperature.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely! This recipe scales well, just be sure to use larger mixing bowls and bake in batches to maintain even cooking and consistent texture.

Final Thoughts

Baking the Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe is one of those joyful experiences that fills your kitchen with warmth and holiday spirit. The bright orange and tart cranberry combination feels like a holiday hug in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a beloved part of your seasonal traditions. Your family and friends will thank you for sharing these delightful cookies that truly taste like Christmas in cookie form.

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