Cranberry Christmas Cookies Recipe Easy

These delectable Cranberry Christmas Cookies blend tartness and sweetness, perfect for festive gatherings—discover how to make them and impress your loved ones!

What kind of recipe is it?

The Cranberry Christmas Cookies Recipe is a delightful holiday treat, perfect for those looking to add a festive touch to their baking.

These soft and chewy cookies are characterized by the tartness of cranberries complemented by a hint of sweetness, making them a unique alternative to traditional cookies.

Ideal for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with family, this recipe caters to bakers of all skill levels.

Create these scrumptious cookies to impress your loved ones and spread some holiday cheer!

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Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 ½ cups
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Baking powder ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) – softened
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup packed
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Dried cranberries 1 cup
White chocolate chips 1 cup
Chopped nuts (optional) ½ cup (e.g., walnuts or pecans)

This table provides all the essential ingredients needed to prepare the delightful Cranberry Christmas Cookies, ensuring you have a festive and tasty treat for your holiday celebrations!

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Cooking Steps

  1. Prepare your mise en place by measuring 2 ½ cups (312 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon (5 g) of baking soda, ½ teaspoon (2 g) of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon (3 g) of salt into separate containers.
  2. Preheat the oven to 190 °C (375 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Line a baking sheet (approximately 43 x 30 cm / 17 x 12 inches) with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup (170 g) of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar, and ½ cup (100 g) of packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy with a creamy texture.
  4. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture (from step 1) to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
  6. Gently fold in 1 cup (150 g) of dried cranberries and 1 cup (175 g) of white chocolate chips, and if desired, ½ cup (60 g) of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) until evenly distributed.
  7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 5 cm (2 inches) between each cookie to allow for spreading.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set with a faint softness. The cookies should emit a sweet aroma and have a slightly puffed appearance.
  9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, about 20 minutes, where they’ll firm up.
  10. Enjoy the cookies once fully cooled, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For enhanced flavor, allow the cookies to rest overnight before serving.
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Variations

Citrus Cranberry Cookies: Add the zest of 1 orange (about 30 g / 1 oz) to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor

and use ½ cup (75 g) of chopped pecans for a nutty twist.

Vegan Cranberry Cookies: Substitute the butter with ¾ cup (180 g) of coconut oil

and replace the eggs with ¼ cup (60 ml) of unsweetened applesauce for a dairy-free and egg-free option.

Gluten-Free Cranberry Cookies: Use 2 ½ cups (312 g) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour,

ensuring it’s a blend with xanthan gum for structure.

Spiced Cranberry Cookies: Incorporate 1 teaspoon (2 g) of ground cinnamon

and ½ teaspoon (1 g) of ground nutmeg into the flour mixture for a warm, spiced flavor profile.

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Tips on plating and presentation

elevated cookie festive presentation

I often find that the way cookies are plated can elevate their appeal, especially for festive occasions.

To showcase my cranberry Christmas cookies, I use a decorative platter and layer them height-height. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a festive touch, while a few fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs around the edges bring color.

Don’t forget attractive napkins to complete the presentation!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

dessert pairing recommendations suggested

After you’ve dazzled your guests with the beautiful presentation of your cranberry Christmas cookies, think about what dishes can complement this sweet treat.

I love pairing them with a buttery pecan pie or a creamy cheesecake, which balance the tartness of the cranberries.

Consider serving a rich chocolate tart as well; the flavors work wonderfully together, creating a memorable dessert experience.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

cranberry cookie drink pairings

While enjoying your cranberry Christmas cookies, it’s delightful to ponder what drinks can enhance the flavor experience.

I often pair them with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a light white wine, like Riesling.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, cranberry juice mixed with sparkling water adds a rejuvenating touch.

Each sip perfectly complements the sweet and tangy notes of the cookies!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely, you can use dried cranberries instead of fresh! I’ve done it myself, and they bring a wonderful sweetness and chewiness to recipes. Just make sure to adjust the moisture in your ingredients accordingly!

How Long Do the Cookies Last?

I’ve found that the cookies last about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, I recommend freezing them for up to three months!

Can These Cookies Be Frozen?

Yes, I’ve found these cookies freeze really well! Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Enjoy your treats later!

What’s the Best Way to Store Them?

I find the best way to store them is in an airtight container, at room temperature. If you need them to last longer, I sometimes freeze them for a few weeks, then just thaw when needed!

Are These Cookies Suitable for Gluten-Free Diets?

These cookies aren’t automatically gluten-free, but I’ve easily adapted the recipe using gluten-free flour. If you’re looking to please everyone, that’s definitely an option I’d recommend. Just check your ingredients carefully!