Introduction
Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of the holidays! These Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are a delightful blend of tangy cranberries and sunny orange zest, wrapped up in a chewy and moist cookie that’s hard to resist. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to your family and friends. Let’s get baking your new favorite festive treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside so the flavors can meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, chewy texture.
- Beat in the egg, followed by the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to ensure your cookies remain soft and not overly dense.
- Gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for the edges to turn golden brown and the centers to appear slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough. If you want a more pronounced orange flavor, consider adding a touch more zest!
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Make sure to cream the butter and sugars well; this step traps small air pockets that help the cookies rise and achieve the desired texture. When adding the flour mixture, mix only until all dry ingredients are absorbed to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tougher cookies.
FAQ
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can replace them with dark chocolate chips or even skip them if you prefer a simpler flavor.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to three months. Just make sure to flash freeze them on a baking sheet first before transferring to a freezer bag.
Conclusion
These Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of the festive season in every bite. With their unique flavor combination and soft texture, they’re bound to become a holiday favorite. So gather your loved ones, bake up a batch, and enjoy the warmth of the season together. Happy baking!