Name: Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

🍊✨ Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies: The Ultimate Holiday Treat!

1. Introduction

There’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly baked batch of orange cranberry cookies during the festive season. These citrus cranberry treats burst with bright, zesty flavors complemented by the tartness of cranberries and the sweet aroma of orange. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fireplace, these festive baking delights are a must-try for any baker seeking a cheerful, citrus-infused twist on classic cookies.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
One-bowl recipe that’s simple to prepare and less mess.
Crispy edges with a chewy center—ideal texture for all sweet tooths.
Vibrant flavor combination of orange and cranberries makes these cookies stand out.
Perfect for sharing or gifting — they look beautiful, packed with flavor, and holiday-ready.

3. Ingredient Notes

To achieve bakery-quality orange cranberry cookies, using quality ingredients is key. Freshly grated orange zest provides a more intense aroma and lively flavor compared to bottled zest. When selecting cranberries, opt for dried cranberries for convenience or fresh cranberries if you prefer a juicier, more tart bite. For the flour, make sure to use all-purpose for the right structure and chewiness.

High-quality vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness, while butter adds richness and helps achieve those crispy edges. For an extra touch of zest, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for aromatic warmth.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

The right tools make sweet baking a joy. A KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange simplifies mixing the cookie dough thoroughly without overworking it, ensuring perfectly tender cookies. A sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set makes scooping and baking a breeze, preventing sticking and ensuring even heat distribution. For baking essential precision, a digital Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer can be used for small batches or reheating leftovers with crispy results.

5. How to Make Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies

Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and vanilla using the stand mixer or a hand mixer until creamy and fluffy. Incorporate the orange zest for a burst of citrus aroma.

Mix the Dry and Wet

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Add Cranberries and Citrus

Fold in dried or fresh cranberries, ensuring even distribution. For a more intense orange flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh orange juice into the dough if desired.

Shape and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form uniform balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown and crisp. The cookies will smell fragrant with citrus and cranberries, and the edges will have a slight buttery crunch.

Cooling and Serving

Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Their texture should be crisp on the outside and chewy inside with vibrant flavors that scream holiday cheer.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor and prevent spreading.
Ensure butter is softened but not melted; this helps achieve the ideal cookie texture.
Use fresh orange zest and high-quality cranberries for maximum flavor impact.
If cookies spread too much, refrigerate the dough briefly before baking.
Sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt on top before baking for a delightful sweet-salty contrast.

7. Variations & Substitutions

Replace dried cranberries with chopped white chocolate or pistachios for added richness.
Use gluten-free flour to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Add a touch of ginger or cinnamon for a cozy, spicy twist.
For a vegan version, substitute vegan butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store these orange cranberry cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh and crispy, add a slice of bread inside the container to absorb moisture. Reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for that warm, fresh-baked feel.

9. FAQ

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven for a fresh taste.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but fresh cranberries will release more juice, so reduce baking time slightly to prevent sogginess. Chop them into smaller pieces if they are large.

Are these cookies suitable for holiday gift baskets?

Definitely! Wrap them in decorative cellophane or place in a festive tin—these citrus cranberry treats are sure to impress family and friends alike.

What makes these cookies so festive?

The vibrant orange zest combined with tart cranberries creates a colorful, flavor-packed treat perfect for holiday cookies and celebrations.

10. Conclusion

Incorporate the bright, zesty flavor of orange combined with the tartness of cranberries in these simple orange cranberry cookies. Ideal for festive baking, they bring a cheerful splash of citrus to your holiday table. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying with loved ones, these cookies are guaranteed to become an annual favorite!

Zesty Orange Cranberry Cookies