Cranberry Orange Cookies bring together the perfect mix of bright citrus and sweet-tart cranberries, creating a soft, buttery treat that feels warm and cozy with every bite. The first time I made them, the fresh orange zest filled my kitchen with the happiest smell, and I instantly knew this recipe would become a favorite. They’re simple to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for holidays or everyday baking.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for best texture)
1 egg (large, room temperature)
2 tbsp orange juice (fresh is best)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 tsp orange zest (from 1 large orange)
2 cups dried cranberries (chopped if large)
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
For the icing:
3 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1/2 tsp orange zest (fine zest, avoid white pith)
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until smooth and light.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add the egg, orange zest, and orange juice to the creamed butter mixture and mix until blended. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft cookie dough forms.
Step 4: Add the Cranberries
Fold in the dried cranberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing the cookies slightly apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
Step 6: Prepare the Icing
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Adjust texture by adding more powdered sugar (thicker) or more juice (thinner).
Step 7: Ice the Cookies
Let the cookies cool completely, then drizzle or spread the orange icing on top for a sweet, citrusy finish.
Variations You Can Try
– Add white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier cookie.
– Swap dried cranberries with dried cherries for a different fruity twist.
– Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
– Use lemon zest instead of orange for a brighter citrus flavor.
– Drizzle cooled cookies with an orange glaze for extra sweetness.
Cooking Notes
– Don’t overmix the dough or the cookies may turn dense.
– Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
– Chill the dough for 20 minutes if you want puffier cookies.
– Bake just until edges are lightly golden to keep them soft.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve warm with hot tea, hot chocolate, or coffee.
– Add them to holiday dessert platters.
– Pack them in cookie boxes for gifting.
– Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fruity-sweet treat.
Storage, Freezing, Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days to keep them soft. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to one week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months, just place them in a freezer-safe bag and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve. If you want them slightly warm, reheat each cookie in the microwave for about 8–10 seconds to bring back the soft, fresh-baked texture.
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
- Fresh cranberries add extra moisture, so chop them small, reduce the amount slightly, and balance the flavor with a little more sugar.
How do I make the citrus flavor stronger?
- Add extra zest, mix in a teaspoon of orange juice, and avoid artificial extracts for the freshest taste.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, chill the dough up to 24 hours, keep it covered, and let it soften slightly before scooping and baking.
Can I freeze the dough?
- Freeze portioned dough balls, store them in a sealed bag, bake straight from frozen, and simply add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Cranberry Orange Cookies are the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with warm, bright, comforting aromas in just a few minutes. They come together easily, use simple ingredients, and deliver a soft, sweet, citrusy bite every time. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, sharing them with friends, or enjoying them with a warm drink on a cozy evening, these cookies always bring a little sunshine to the table. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
