Almond Cranberry Christmas Cookies

What kind of recipe is it?

Almond Cranberry Christmas Cookies are a delightful festive treat that perfectly blend sweet and tart flavors, making them a holiday favorite.

These cookies are characterized by their chewy texture, thanks to the almonds and dried cranberries, combined with a buttery base that melts in your mouth.

Ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself, these cookies are aimed at anyone looking to bring a touch of joy and warmth to their holiday celebrations.

They make the perfect gift or festive addition to your dessert table.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 ½ cups (312g)
Baking soda	1 teaspoon
Baking powder	½ teaspoon
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Unsalted butter	1 cup (226g), softened
Granulated sugar	¾ cup (150g)
Brown sugar	¾ cup (165g), packed
Eggs	2 large
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Almond extract	½ teaspoon
Dried cranberries	1 cup (150g)
Sliced almonds	½ cup (75g)
White chocolate chips	1 cup (175g) (optional)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)	Optional, for serving

Notes:

Adjust the quantities as needed based on your desired batch size.
The powdered sugar is optional and can be used for dusting before serving.

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups (312g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
In another mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together 1 cup (226g) of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup (150g) of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup (165g) of packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add in 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients from step 2 into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Gently fold in 1 cup (150g) of dried cranberries and ½ cup (75g) of sliced almonds (plus 1 cup (175g) of white chocolate chips if desired) using a spatula until evenly distributed.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but slightly soft. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optionally, dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an extra festive touch. Enjoy!

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Variations

Vegan Almond Cranberry Cookies: Substitute the butter with 1 cup (240ml) of coconut oil or vegan butter and replace the eggs with 1/4 cup (60ml) of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
Gluten-Free Cranberry Almond Cookies: Use 2 ½ cups (312g) of a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
Chocolate Almond Cookies: Replace ½ cup (75g) of sliced almonds with ½ cup (90g) of chopped dark chocolate or cocoa nibs for a richer chocolate flavor.
Spiced Ginger Cranberry Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist suitable for the holiday season.

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Tips on plating and presentation

After experimenting with various variations of almond cranberry cookies, it’s time to think about how to present your delicious creations.

I love using festive platters or stacking the cookies in clear glass jars for a layered effect.

Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh cranberries for a pop of color.

Finally, don’t forget to add a little holiday-themed ribbon for that special touch!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

Pairing almond cranberry Christmas cookies with other festive dishes can make your holiday spread even more delightful.

I love serving them alongside a cheese platter, filled with creamy brie and sharp cheddar. They also shine next to spiced nuts and a variety of fresh fruits.

For something warm, try them with gingerbread or a rich chocolate dessert for a sweet combo everyone will enjoy!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To truly enhance the experience of almond cranberry Christmas cookies, consider pairing them with seasonal beverages that complement their sweet and nutty flavors.

I love serving them with a warm spiced apple cider or a festive holiday punch.

If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a creamy eggnog or a rich hot chocolate works beautifully, too.

Enjoying these drinks creates the perfect cozy atmosphere!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Almond Cranberry Cookies for Later Use?

Yes, you can definitely freeze almond cranberry cookies for later use! I usually place them in an airtight container, and they stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw them before enjoying!

Are Almond Cranberry Cookies Gluten-Free?

No, almond cranberry cookies aren’t inherently gluten-free unless you use gluten-free ingredients. I always check the flour and other components when baking to guarantee they meet dietary restrictions. It’s essential for everyone’s safety and enjoyment!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I usually keep them at room temperature, but they’re even better if you freeze them to enjoy later.

Can I Substitute Ingredients for Allergies?

Yes, you can substitute ingredients for allergies! I’ve swapped out various nuts and used alternative flours or sweeteners in my recipes. Just make sure your replacements maintain the right texture and flavor profile for the best results.

What Is the Origin of Almond Cranberry Cookies?

Almond cranberry cookies likely originated from traditional holiday baking, blending sweet and tart flavors. I love how these cookies represent seasonal celebrations and family gatherings, reflecting cultural influences in diverse recipes shared across generations.