Orange Cranberry Cookies Recipe Soft And Chewy

Soft and Chewy Cranberry Orange Cookies: A Quick Delight

Soft and chewy cranberry orange cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty freshness of orange. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a family gathering, looking for a sweet snack, or simply indulging in a cozy evening. With a prep time of just about 15 minutes and a baking time of only 6 to 7 minutes, you can enjoy these tasty cookies in no time!

Cranberry Orange Cookies, Christmas Baking Recipes, Orange Cookies, Cranberry Cookies, Xmas Cookies, Christmas Food Desserts, Cranberry Recipes, Christmas Cooking, Holiday Cooking

Why You’ll Love It

These cookies are not just delicious but also offer various benefits. The combination of dried cranberries and orange adds a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. They are soft and chewy, making them a favorite among cookie lovers. Another great aspect is that they are easy to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, the bright flavors make them an uplifting treat for any day of the week!

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup orange juice

Substitutions & Key Variations

If you’re missing some ingredients or want to switch things up, consider these substitutions:

• Butter: You can use a margarine or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar or a sugar substitute can be used for a healthier option.
• Dried Cranberries: Raisins or chopped dried apricots work as wonderful alternatives.
• Orange Juice: Lemon juice can be used for a different citrus flavor.

Step-by-step

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s ready for your cookies when you’re done preparing the dough.

Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well combined before adding the next one. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Incorporate the Flavorings

Fold in the dried cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice. Make sure everything is mixed well and evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using rounded tablespoons, drop the cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Leave enough space between each scoop as they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 6 to 7 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges are lightly browned but the centers seem soft.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Success Tips

• Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened, but not melting. This will help in achieving the right texture.
• Texture: Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour, as this can make the cookies tough.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid underbaking or overbaking the cookies. They should look slightly underdone when you take them out, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

How to Serve

Serve your soft and chewy cranberry orange cookies warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of milk or a hot cup of tea. For a special treat, consider topping them with a light drizzle of icing or pairing them with cheese for a delightful flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating

To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep well for about one week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to reheat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I freeze these cookies?

A1: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking or freeze the baked cookies. Just ensure they are in an airtight container.

Q2: How do I know when the cookies are done?

A2: Look for lightly browned edges with soft centers. They will firm up as they cool.

Q3: Can I make these cookies healthier?

A3: Yes! You can reduce the sugar, use whole wheat flour, and add nuts or seeds for extra nutrition.

Q4: What can I use instead of oranges?

A4: You can substitute lemon or lime juice and zest for a different citrus twist.

Q5: Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?

A5: Absolutely! Chocolate chips pair wonderfully with the flavors of cranberry and orange.

Nutrition Notes

These cookies are a tasty treat, but be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching your diet. On average, each cookie is about 150 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used.

Conclusion

Soft and chewy cranberry orange cookies are a delightful addition to any cookie repertoire. Their sweet and tart flavors make them irresistible, and they are simple to make. So, why not try your hand at baking them today? Share your creations with family and friends, and enjoy the compliments that come your way!

Links to Related Recipes

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Cranberry Orange Cookies, Christmas Baking Recipes, Orange Cookies, Cranberry Cookies, Xmas Cookies, Christmas Food Desserts, Cranberry Recipes, Christmas Cooking, Holiday Cooking

Cranberry Orange Cookies

Soft and chewy cranberry orange cookies blend the tartness of cranberries with the zesty freshness of orange, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 22 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 24 cookies

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ¼ cup orange juice

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth, light, and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well combined before adding the next one. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, stirring until just combined.
• Fold in the dried cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice until evenly distributed.
• Using rounded tablespoons, drop the cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving space between each scoop.

Baking

• Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 6 to 7 minutes until the edges are lightly browned but the centers seem soft.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melting for optimal texture. Avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour to prevent tough cookies. Look for lightly browned edges with soft centers for perfect results.

Keyword chewy cookies, Christmas Cookies, Cranberry Orange Cookies, Holiday Baking, Soft Cookies