Here’s the complete Cranberry Orange Cookies recipe with a delightful citrus glaze:
🍊 Cranberry Orange Cookies
Bright, buttery cookies bursting with tangy cranberries and fresh orange flavor – perfect for holiday baking or year-round treats!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp orange zest (from 1 large orange)
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
For the Orange Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy (~3 mins).
- Beat in egg, orange zest, and orange juice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients.
- Fold in dried cranberries.
2. Shape & Bake
- Scoop 1½-tbsp portions of dough; roll into balls.
- Place 2″ apart on baking sheets. Flatten slightly with your palm.
- Bake 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
3. Glaze (Optional)
- Whisk powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth.
- Drizzle over cooled cookies.
💡 Pro Tips
✔ Use fresh orange juice – Bottled lacks brightness!
✔ Chop cranberries if large for even distribution.
✔ Underbake slightly – Cookies firm up as they cool.
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
🍊 Flavor Variations
- Add ½ cup white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
- Substitute lemon zest/juice for a different citrus twist.
- Mix in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
These cheerful cookies pair perfectly with tea or coffee and make lovely edible gifts! Would you add the glaze or keep them simple? 😊
