Cranberry Orange Christmas Cookies

What kind of recipe is it?

Cranberry Orange Christmas Cookies are a delightful festive treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty flavor of oranges, creating a uniquely invigorating holiday cookie.

These chewy yet crisp cookies aren’t only visually appealing with their vibrant colors but are also simple to make, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Ideal for holiday gatherings, gifting, or cozy family celebrations, these cookies encapsulate the essence of Christmas cheer and are sure to impress friends and loved ones alike.

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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	1 cup (2 sticks), softened
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar	½ cup, packed
Large eggs	2
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Orange zest	Zest of 1 large orange
Fresh cranberries	1 cup, chopped (or frozen)
Orange juice	¼ cup
Powdered sugar	For dusting (optional)

These ingredients will come together to create a delicious batch of Cranberry Orange Christmas Cookies, ready to be enjoyed during the festive season!

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and position the oven rack in the center. Line a baking sheet (approximately 43 cm x 30 cm / 17 in x 12 in) with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together 312.5 g (2 ½ cups) all-purpose flour, 5 g (1 teaspoon) baking soda, 2 g (½ teaspoon) baking powder, and 3 g (½ teaspoon) salt; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together 226 g (1 cup) softened unsalted butter, 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar, and 100 g (½ cup) packed brown sugar on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add 2 large eggs, 5 ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract, and the zest of 1 large orange to the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Gently fold in 120 g (1 cup) chopped fresh cranberries and 60 ml (¼ cup) orange juice using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough (about 30 g / 2 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 5 cm (2 in) 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. The cookies should be slightly soft but not doughy.
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.
Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar if desired, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

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Variations

Chocolate Cranberry Cookies: Add 150 g (1 cup) of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich chocolate twist that complements the tart cranberries.
Gluten-Free Cranberry Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (312.5 g / 2 ½ cups) to make a gluten-free version without losing texture.
Vegan Cranberry Cookies: Replace the butter with 226 g (1 cup) of coconut oil and the eggs with 60 ml (¼ cup) of flaxseed meal mixed with 180 ml (¾ cup) of water for a dairy-free and egg-free adaptation.
Spiced Orange Cranberry Cookies: Add 5 g (1 teaspoon) of ground cinnamon and 2 g (½ teaspoon) of nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor profile.

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Tips on plating and presentation

After experimenting with various cookie variations, it’s time to think about how to present these delightful cranberry orange cookies.

I like to arrange them on a festive platter, layering them carefully for height. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar gives a snowy effect.

Don’t forget to include some fresh cranberries or orange slices as garnish. It’ll make the display pop and look truly inviting!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

While enjoying my cranberry orange Christmas cookies, I’ve discovered that they pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes that enhance their festive flavors.

They go particularly well with a rich cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or brie. Additionally, serving them alongside spiced nuts or a vibrant green salad brightens the experience.

The combination brings out the cookies’ fruity zest and adds a delightful contrast.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To elevate the experience of enjoying cranberry orange Christmas cookies, consider pairing them with drinks that complement their sweet and tart flavors.

I love enjoying these cookies with a warm cup of spiced cider or a glass of fizzy ginger ale.

For a festive touch, a cranberry mimosa adds elegance, while herbal tea balances the sweetness beautifully.

Each sip enhances this delightful treat!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried Ones?

Absolutely, you can use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones! Just keep in mind that fresh cranberries are more tart, so you might want to adjust the sugar in your recipe for balance. Enjoy!

How Long Do These Cookies Last When Stored?

These cookies typically last about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I’ve found they taste even better a day or two later, so don’t hesitate to enjoy them!

Can I Freeze the Dough for Later Use?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for later use! I usually wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. When I’m ready, I just thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Are There Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?

I’ve used pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds as nut-free alternatives. They add a nice crunch and flavor without compromising taste. Just make sure to chop them up a bit before mixing them in!

How Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, I substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, use plant-based butter instead of dairy, and opt for non-dairy chocolate chips. It’s delicious and animal-friendly, and everyone’s gonna love them!