Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

Name: Best Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried cranberries; Zest of 1 orange; 1/4 cup orange juice

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Indulge in the festive spirit with these delightful cranberry orange cookies, perfect for your holiday gatherings!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:21:29.955Z

These Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are a family favorite during the holiday season. The tartness of cranberries balances perfectly with the zesty orange flavor, making them a delightful treat. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Bursting with refreshing orange flavor and sweet-tart cranberries
Chewy texture with a slightly crispy edge
Perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday parties

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

There's something magical about the combination of cranberries and oranges, especially during the holiday season. These cookies encapsulate that festive feeling, making them an ideal treat for gatherings with family and friends. The bright, citrusy flavor of orange pairs wonderfully with the sweet-tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance that will leave everyone reaching for more.

Not only do these cookies taste incredible, but they also fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma while baking. Imagine the joy on your loved ones' faces as they bite into a soft, chewy cookie that embodies the spirit of Christmas. These cookies are not just a dessert; they are a cherished memory waiting to happen.

Perfect for Gifting

If you're looking for a thoughtful gift for friends or neighbors this holiday season, these cranberry orange cookies make an excellent choice. Their vibrant colors and festive flavor are sure to brighten anyone's day. Package them in a decorative tin or box, and add a personal touch with a handwritten note for an extra special gesture.

These cookies are also a fantastic addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their unique flavor profile stands out among traditional cookies, making them a conversation starter at parties. Sharing these treats is a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer and show your appreciation to those around you.

Storing and Freezing Tips

To keep your cranberry orange cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, maintaining their chewy texture and flavor. If you're making them ahead of time, consider freezing the dough. Simply scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to bake, just preheat the oven and place the frozen dough directly on the baking sheet. You may need to add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time, but you'll have fresh cookies in no time. This makes it easy to enjoy warm, homemade cookies whenever the craving strikes!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried cranberries
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 cup orange juice

Mix all ingredients well to ensure even distribution.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in Cranberries and Orange

Gently fold in the dried cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice.

Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!

Baking Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting. This helps to create a light and fluffy mixture when creaming with sugar. If you forget to take it out in advance, you can quickly soften it by cutting it into small cubes and letting it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

When measuring flour, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing it down, which can lead to dry cookies. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accurate measurement. This small step can make a big difference in the texture of your cookies.

Customizing Your Cookies

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or even swap out dried cranberries for dried cherries or blueberries to mix up the flavors. A sprinkle of white chocolate chips can also complement the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

If you prefer a more intense orange flavor, consider adding a bit more orange zest or a splash of orange extract to the dough. This customization allows you to tailor the cookies to your personal taste, ensuring they are perfect for your holiday celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries may be too tart; stick with dried cranberries for best results.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for orange juice?

You can use lemon juice or apple juice as a substitute for orange juice.