Description
Experience the harmony of flavors and textures with our Orange Cranberry Cookies, where the lively twist of orange peel meets the tanginess of fresh cranberries all embraced by a soft and buttery texture. These cookies tell stories of get-togethers and cozy afternoons with each bite capturing the warmth of home and the happiness of sharing. As they bake your kitchen will be filled with a citrusy fragrance that promises moments of bliss and sweet indulgence. The glaze, a drizzle of sweetness adds a touch of refinement making these cookies not just a treat but a cherished experience. With their charm and bursting flavors they exemplify the enchantment that occurs when simplicity blends with sophistication.
Ingredients
Cookies:
2 ½ c all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 c unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 c granulated sugar
½ c packed light brown sugar
Zest from one large orange
1 large egg
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 tbsp orange juice
1 ½ c chopped whole fresh cranberries
Glaze:
3 tbsp orange juice
1 ½ c powdered sugar
Instructions
Let’s make some cookie dough:
Start by combining 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda and ½ teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Set this mixture aside for now.
In a bowl take 1 cup of butter at room temperature and use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to beat it for about 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes creamy.
In another bowl mix together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar and the zest, from a large orange until well combined.
Add the sugar zest mixture to the butter. Continue to beat for another 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. Then add in one egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of orange juice. Mix everything well.
Gradually incorporate the ingredients (the flour mixture from Step 1) into the mixture while mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Gently fold in around 1 ½ cups of chopped cranberries into the dough.
Cover the dough with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
Now let’s move on to baking:
Preheat your oven to a temperature of 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon drop portions of cookie dough onto the prepared sheets while leaving at least two inches between each portion for spreading during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven, for around 12 to 14 minutes until they turn brown.
Let the cookies cool on the pan for 3 minutes before moving them to a wire rack, for cooling.
For the glaze:
Combine 3 tablespoons of orange juice and 1 ½ cups of sugar in a bowl whisking until it becomes smooth.
Spread or drizzle the glaze onto the cooled cookies. Allow it to set before serving.
Enjoy these delightful homemade Orange Cranberry Cookies!
Notes
Transforming our cherished Orange Cranberry Cookies into a gluten-free delight is a breeze and ensures everyone can indulge in these tangy, sweet treats. Swap out the regular all-purpose flour with an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, one that includes a variety of flours and xanthan gum to replicate the texture of traditional flour.
Make sure to give the gluten-free flour a good whisk before measuring to prevent any compaction, ensuring a perfect cookie consistency. Keep a close eye on your baking time, as gluten-free flour might alter it slightly—be ready for a minute more or less, depending on your oven.
- Prep Time: 20 MINS
- Cook Time: 12 MINS
