Name: Delicious Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies for the Holidays
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 225 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 3/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour (spoons and leveled); 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tbsp orange zest; 1 cup very finely chopped dried cranberries (Craisins work well); 1/4 cup coarse sugar (for rolling); 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (for icing)

As I sifted through the vibrant red cranberries, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, transporting me back to cozy holiday kitchens filled with laughter and the sweet scent of baking. This year, I’m excited to share my Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies, a delightful slice-and-bake treat that brings together buttery shortbread with zesty orange and tart cranberries. Not only are these cookies perfect for festive gatherings, but their make-ahead nature ensures you can effortlessly whip up a batch anytime the holiday spirit strikes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, these cookies offer a simple yet impressive way to celebrate the season. Curious about the secret to making your holidays even sweeter? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and vibrant orange creates a perfect balance, making each bite a festive delight.

Easy Preparation: With a simple slice-and-bake method, you can enjoy homemade cookies without the fuss, perfect for those busy holiday evenings.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough in advance and slice when needed—ideal for spontaneous gatherings or last-minute treats!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These cookies are sure to impress your friends and family, adding warmth and charm to any holiday gathering.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize with white chocolate chips or nuts, elevating the flavor further. Looking for more delightful ideas? Check out my delicious Orange Creamsicle Cookies and Luscious Lemon Cookies for a refreshing twist!

Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a crisp edge; consider using extra for rolling.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients, adding moisture; use at room temperature for best results.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor with depth and warmth for your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure provider; ensure it’s spoons and leveled for accuracy.
• Salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall cookie flavor.
• Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed adds a bright, zesty component to both dough and icing.
• Orange Zest – Provides a fragrant aroma while deepening the orange flavor for a festive touch.
• Very Finely Chopped Dried Cranberries – Adds tartness and chewy texture; Craisins work well for this recipe.

Optional Toppings
• Coarse Sugar – For rolling, adds a delightful crunch and decorative sparkle.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Used for a simple icing that sweetens and decorates, making your cookies irresistible.

Baking these delicious cookies is the perfect way to add warmth to your holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Add in 1 large room temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, then gently fold in the 2 tablespoons of orange juice, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1 cup of very finely chopped dried cranberries until just combined. The dough will be thick.

Step 2: Form and Chill Logs
Once the dough is prepared, divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log about 7-8 inches long, ensuring they’re smooth and even. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling step is crucial, as it helps the cookies retain their shape during baking and enhances the flavors of your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). While the oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie transfer and cleanup. This setup will prepare you for slicing the chilled dough and ensures your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies bake evenly, achieving that perfect soft center and crisp edges.

Step 4: Roll in Sugar (Optional)
Once the dough has chilled, unwrap the logs from the plastic wrap. If you’d like to add a decorative touch, roll each log in coarse sugar, ensuring an even coat over the entire surface. This optional step adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness to your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies, making them even more festive and visually appealing.

Step 5: Slice and Bake
Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 12 even cookies, about ½ inch thick. Place the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Once done, cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, allowing them to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Icing
To finish your Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies with a festive touch, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice in a small bowl until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies and, if desired, sprinkle additional orange zest on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor. This final step gives your cookies a beautiful sheen and enhances their holiday charm.

Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your baking experience with these delightful twists!

Nutty Delight: Substitute dried cranberries with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Replace some cranberries with white or dark chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent variation. The sweetness of the chocolate perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries.
No Sugar: Try using a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to make these cookies a sugar-free treat, perfect for health-conscious bakers.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor profile. These spices evoke cozy holiday vibes and pair beautifully with orange and cranberry.
Citrus Kick: Enhance the orange flavor by including lemon zest along with the orange zest. The combination will give your cookies a refreshing brightness that everyone will love!
Glazed Elegance: Instead of icing, dip each cookie halfway in melted chocolate after baking for an elegant presentation. This creates a beautiful contrast of flavors and makes your cookies truly special.
Savory Twist: Incorporate a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking to create an irresistible sweet-and-salty combination that elevates the flavor.
Dried Fruit Medley: Mix in a variety of dried fruits like apricots or cherries along with cranberries for a colorful and flavorful cookie that feels festive.

If you’re looking for more delightful baking ideas, try these wholesome Thumbprint Cookies Melt for a unique experience or whip up my Luscious Lemon Cookies for another fruity treat!

Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It prevents the cookies from spreading and enhances the flavor, resulting in perfect Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for optimal mixing. This helps create a smooth, airy dough.

Mind the Mixing: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid.

Perfectly Sliced Cookies: Use a sharp knife for slicing the logs. A clean cut helps maintain the ideal cookie shape and texture during baking.

Watch the Oven Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly browned at the edges but soft in the center for the perfect holiday treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are a dream for meal prep! You can prepare the dough and roll it into logs up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This chilling period not only enhances the flavors but also prevents spreading during baking. If you’re looking to plan ahead even further, the logs can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just slice the chilled or frozen dough (allowing it to soften slightly if frozen) into cookies and bake directly from the fridge or freezer. You’ll have delicious, festive cookies ready in no time, perfect for those busy holiday gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready for snacking!

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for about a week. Just ensure they’re sealed tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the unbaked logs wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, slice and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: Enjoy leftover cookies by gently warming them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes, reviving their delightful texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies

The warmth of the holidays isn’t just about the cookies; it’s about creating a complete celebration on your table.

Cozy Hot Chocolate: Rich, creamy hot chocolate pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cookies. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream enhances the citrusy notes and provides a delightful contrast in texture.
Festive Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with citrus and berries offers a burst of flavor that complements the cookies wonderfully.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea beautifully echo the flavors of the cookies, making for a comforting duo.
Christmas Punch: Serve a chilled, fruity punch for a festive touch; it’s a great way to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Candied Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these pecans add a delightful texture contrast to the soft cookies. Their caramelized flavor complements the tart cranberries well.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of mild cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweet cookies; consider pairing with a soft Brie or tangy goat cheese.
Gingerbread Cake: The spiced flavors of gingerbread cake pair remarkably with the fruity notes of the cookies, creating a festive harmony on your dessert table.

Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cranberries for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for those that are firm and plump, with a bright, deep red color. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots all over, as these may be overripe or spoiled. It’s also great to opt for dried cranberries (Craisins) that are finely chopped for even distribution in your cookie dough.

What is the best way to store Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies?
Very simple! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can keep them in the fridge for about a week. Just ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out. This way, they’re always soft and ready for a festive snack!

Can I freeze the Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies?
Absolutely! For longer preservation, you can freeze the unbaked logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy fresh cookies, simply slice and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time. This method allows you to have warm, homemade cookies any time the holiday spirit strikes!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading more than you’d like, it’s often due to the dough being too warm or not chilled adequately. Ensure you chill the logs for at least 3 hours or overnight. If the dough still spreads, try placing the shaped logs in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This will help maintain their shape during baking and yield perfectly soft, chewy cookies.

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
The ingredients in the Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are nut-free, making them a great option for anyone avoiding nuts. However, always double-check for potential cross-contamination, especially if you’re sharing with others. Share the joy of the holidays by ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats!