Name: Delicious Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tbsp fresh orange juice; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 cups fresh cranberries (roughly chopped); ½ tsp baking soda; 3 cups all-purpose flour (I use King Arthur); 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tbsp orange zest (freshly grated for best flavor); 2 large egg yolks; 1⅓ cups sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); ¾ tsp salt; 2 tsp orange zest (freshly grated); ½ cup sugar

There’s something truly delightful about baked goods that incorporate bright flavors and festive ingredients. Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies combine the tartness of cranberries with the zesty freshness of orange, creating a perfect balance that dances on your palate. These cookies are not only visually appealing with their vibrant colors, but they also evoke the warmth of the holiday season, making them an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy afternoons at home.

Moreover, the combination of chewy cranberries and soft, citrus-infused dough offers a unique taste experience. If you’re looking for a cookie that captivates both the heart and taste buds, these cranberry orange delights may just be the answer. With a few simple ingredients and a few steps, you can whip up a batch of these enchanting cookies that will leave everyone asking for more.

Ingredients for Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies:

To create these delectable Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

– 3 tbsp fresh orange juice
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 cups fresh cranberries (roughly chopped)
– ½ tsp baking soda
– 3 cups all-purpose flour (I recommend King Arthur for best results)
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tbsp orange zest (freshly grated for optimal flavor)
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1⅓ cups sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
– ¾ tsp salt

For the sugar topping, you will need:
– 2 tsp orange zest (freshly grated)
– ½ cup sugar

Prepare to delight your senses with these cookies that seamlessly blend tart cranberries and zesty oranges. If you’re interested in exploring similar festive treats, check out this delicious Christmas Crinkle Cookies recipe.

Now that you’re set with the ingredients, let’s dive into the steps to create these mouthwatering cookies that will surely become a favorite during the holiday season and beyond!

How to Prepare Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies:

To create these delightful cranberry orange cookies, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, blend the softened butter and sugar until creamy, then add egg yolks and freshly grated orange zest. Stir in the fresh orange juice for a burst of flavor. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until fully integrated. Be sure to fold in the roughly chopped cranberries for that tart sweetness, creating a perfect cookie dough.

Now, scoop the dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Before baking, prepare the sugar topping by mixing sugar with additional orange zest; sprinkle this blend over the cookies. Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. These savory treats are sure to become a favorite, much like Christmas Crinkle Cookies, and perfect for any occasion!

Baking Tips for Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies:

When baking Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies, a few key tips will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly. First, make sure to use fresh cranberries for a bright flavor; they add a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness. Additionally, zesting the oranges will release essential oils, enhancing the citrus aroma.

For the best texture, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much, giving you a thicker, chewier cookie. Moreover, consider experimenting with complementary flavors like white chocolate chips for added sweetness, similar to the delicious White Chocolate Raspberry Layer Cake found here.

Lastly, follow this comprehensive recipe for Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies from Molly’s Home Guide to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Variations and Add-Ins for Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies:

Enhancing your Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies can be a delightful adventure. One popular add-in is white chocolate chips. These creamy morsels complement the tangy cranberries beautifully, creating a wonderful balance of flavors. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts; this will introduce a satisfying crunch that elevates the texture.

Another creative variation involves substituting the orange zest with lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist. Almond extract is also an excellent choice if you want to introduce a diverse flavor profile.

For a unique seasonal flair, try incorporating bits of dried apricots or a pinch of cinnamon. If you enjoy festive treats, pair your cookies with Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly and cream cheese on crackers for a delightful appetizer. Explore other options like Snowflake Cranberry Christmas Macarons for more cranberry-inspired desserts.

Experimenting with these variations will ensure your cookies remain a delightful surprise every time you bake!

Storage Tips for Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies:

To keep your Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies fresh and tasty, proper storage is essential. Start by allowing the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, stack them in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. If you want to maintain their crispy edges, consider using a container with a loose fitting lid. These cookies can last up to a week at room temperature.

For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just layer the cookies between sheets of parchment and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds. If you’re in the mood for another festive treat, check out the delicious Christmas Crinkle Cookies Recipe for more cookie inspiration.

By following these tips, your cookies will remain irresistible for days to come!

Serving Suggestions for Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies:

These delightful Cranberry Orange Cookies are perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat. For a festive platter, pair with Snowflake Cranberry Christmas Macarons, creating a beautiful contrast of flavors and colors. Enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What are Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies?

These delightful treats combine the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges, resulting in a cookie that is both sweet and tangy. The unique flavor profile is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a tasty snack throughout the year.

How do I store my Cranberry Orange Cookies?

To keep these delicious cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about a week; however, you can also freeze them for up to three months if you want to enjoy them later.

Can I substitute the cranberries in the recipe?

Absolutely! If cranberries are unavailable, consider dried cherries or raisins for a different twist. Each alternative will bring its own unique flavor, while still pairing beautifully with the orange zest.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies make wonderful gifts! Package them in decorative tins or boxes, and your friends and family will appreciate the homemade touch. Speaking of gifting, you might also enjoy crafting batches of Christmas Crinkle Cookies for the holiday season!

What should I serve with these cookies?

Pair your cookies with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk to enhance the flavors. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream would complement the tangy taste beautifully.

Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?

Certainly! To make gluten-free Cranberry Orange Cookies, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use plant-based butter and a suitable sweetener for a vegan option, making these treats accessible for various diets.

Delicious Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cookies combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright citrus flavor of orange, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

3 tbsp fresh orange juice

1 tbsp cornstarch

2 cups fresh cranberries (roughly chopped)

½ tsp baking soda

3 cups all-purpose flour (I use King Arthur)

1 tsp baking powder

1 tbsp orange zest (freshly grated for best flavor)

2 large egg yolks

1⅓ cups sugar

1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)

¾ tsp salt

2 tsp orange zest (freshly grated)

½ cup sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine the fresh orange juice and cornstarch, mixing until smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped cranberries with baking soda, flour, and baking powder; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the egg yolks, orange zest, and the orange juice mixture to the batter, mixing until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
In a small bowl, mix the additional orange zest and sugar for the topping, and sprinkle a little on top of each cookie.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a chewier cookie, slightly underbake; for a crisper texture, bake a bit longer. Feel free to substitute dried cranberries if fresh ones are not available.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 30
Category: Dessert
Method: baking
Cuisine: American