Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies

© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©

Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies: The Ultimate Holiday Cookies with a Citrus Twist 🍊🫙✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to a delightful journey into baking with these orange cranberry cookies. This festive treat combines the vibrant zest of oranges with the tartness of cranberries, making it a perfect choice for holiday cookies that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re planning a cozy winter gathering or a cheerful party, these cookies bring a burst of flavor and color to any occasion. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through every step to create soft, chewy, and irresistibly flavorful cranberry cookies that are full of zest and holiday cheer.

2. Ingredients for Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from fresh oranges)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• Optional: chopped nuts or white chocolate chips

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Perfect Cranberry Cookies

Preparing the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Fold in the dried cranberries and optional nuts or chocolate chips if using.

Shaping and Baking the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step helps the cookies set and enhances their chewy texture.

Finishing Touches

Once cooled, you can drizzle the cookies with melted white chocolate or sprinkle with additional orange zest for extra flair. Store your orange cranberry cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. For a festive presentation, arrange these holiday cookies on a decorative platter or part of a charming cheese board.

4. Storage Tips for Your Holiday Cookies

To keep your cranberry cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you layer the cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in airtight containers or resealable bags—thaw at room temperature before serving. Proper storage preserves their flavor and texture, making them a ready-to-serve homemade holiday treat.

5. Serving Suggestions for Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies

These holiday cookies are versatile and pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, especially a festive spiced latte from your holiday cocktail collection. For an extra special presentation, pair with a cheese and charcuterie platter, or serve alongside a refreshing festive charcuterie wreath. Their bright citrus flavor also complements creamy cheeses and nuts, making them an ideal addition to holiday gatherings and parties.

6. FAQs about Orange Cranberry Cookies

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but it’s best to chop them into smaller pieces to evenly distribute the tartness. Keep in mind that fresh cranberries may release more moisture, so you might need to adjust the amount of flour slightly to compensate.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. This will maintain the texture and flavor, making the cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

What’s the preparation time for these orange cranberry cookies?

Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, with baking time around 10-12 minutes. Total time from start to finish is roughly 30 minutes, making these cookies quick and easy for holiday baking.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, form the dough into a log or individual portions and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for fresh, warm cookies anytime.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – perfect for baking cookies quickly and evenly, especially if you want to try a new method.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – ensures easy removal of cookies without sticking and simplifies cleanup.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – versatile for experimenting with different cooking techniques, including baking.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange – ideal for mixing cookie dough effortlessly and evenly.

8. Conclusion

These orange cranberry cookies are a festive, citrus-infused treat that perfectly capture the spirit of the holiday season. Their bright flavors, chewy texture, and stunning appearance make them a must-have for any holiday cookie platter. Whether you’re snacking at home or sharing with loved ones, these holiday cookies are sure to become a favorite tradition. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy baking a batch of these irresistible treats to brighten your festivities.

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