Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Why This Recipe Works

Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies blend the irresistible flavors of tangy cranberries and bright orange zest. The combination of brown sugar and butter creates a soft and chewy texture, while the addition of optional white chocolate chips and nuts adds a delightful crunch.

Why you should try this recipe

These cookies are perfect for the holiday season. They are not only delicious but also simple to make. The bright flavors of cranberry and orange make them a festive treat that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma while baking!

How to make Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts, optional)

Equipments Needed

• Oven
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture, beating well to combine.
5. Stir in the orange zest until well incorporated.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, white chocolate chips (if using), and nuts (if using) using a spatula or wooden spoon.
8. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.
10. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to serve Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa. They make a great addition to holiday cookie platters and are perfect for sharing with family and friends.

How to store Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or freezer bags.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
• Don’t overmix the dough to keep the cookies chewy.
• If you like, you can add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a twist, you can replace the cranberries with dried cherries or blueberries.
• You can omit the nuts or replace them with your favorite type.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.

FAQs

1. 
   

   Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   Fresh cranberries may work, but they are more tart. You might need to add more sugar to balance their flavor.

2. 
   

   What if I don’t have orange zest?
   You can substitute it with lemon zest for a different citrus flavor.

3. 
   

   Can I add more white chocolate chips?
   Yes! Feel free to add more white chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter cookie.

   
   

Print