Cranberry Orange Cookies – Zesty & Chewy Treats

Cranberry Orange Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and chewy in every bite. Bursting with tart cranberries and bright orange zest, these cookies make a festive treat for holidays or a cozy snack anytime. They’re simple to bake, soft in the middle, and slightly crisp on the edges. Whether you’re sharing them with family or adding them to your cookie platter, these cookies are sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Chewy, tender texture with crisp edges
• Bursting with cranberries and bright orange flavor
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for holiday gifting or cozy snacks
• Can be made ahead and stored for convenience

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups (150g) dried cranberries
• ½ cup (60g) chopped white chocolate (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in dried cranberries and optional white chocolate.
7. Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Enjoy warm or store for later use.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute dried cherries or blueberries for cranberries.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Use orange extract for a more intense orange flavor.
• Roll cookie dough balls in sugar before baking for extra sparkle.
• Freeze unbaked dough balls for quick baking later.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature.
• Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to baking time.
• Keep cookies layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa.
• Pair with a citrus glaze or dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
• Add a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a snack plate.
• Perfect for holiday cookie trays or gift boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but fresh cranberries are juicier and may release moisture while baking. Chop them finely and consider slightly reducing other liquids in the dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure baking soda is gluten-free.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature with a slice of bread; the cookies absorb moisture from the bread and stay soft longer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake on multiple sheets in separate oven racks. Adjust baking time if needed and rotate sheets for even baking.

Ready to Make It?

Cranberry Orange Cookies are chewy, zesty, and easy to bake. Perfect for holiday treats, gifting, or cozy snacks, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cookie rotation.

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