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Orange Cranberry Cookies

These Orange Cranberry Cookies combine the cheerful burst of citrus flavor with the tartness of cranberries, resulting in a soft and chewy treat perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 13 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in your cookies.
  • 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar This is the base sweetness; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest Infuses the cookies with a bright, fresh citrus aroma.
  • 2 large egg yolks Adds richness and moisture.
  • 3 tablespoons orange juice Boosts the citrus flavor while providing additional moisture.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Make sure to spoon it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Helps create a tender cookie texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures the cookies rise nicely.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Works alongside the baking powder for lift.
  • 3/4 teaspoon table salt Balances sweetness and brings out the citrus flavor.
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries Adds a lovely burst of flavor.

Topping Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Gives the cookies a sweet crunch on the outside.
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest Reinforces the delightful orange flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and orange zest. Beat until light and fluffy.
  • Add the egg yolks and orange juice, mixing until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until completely combined.
  • Gently fold in the fresh cranberries until evenly distributed.
  • To make the sugar topping, combine the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons orange zest in a small dish. Rub together until infused.
  • Scoop the dough using a level 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized scoop, roll into balls, and coat each ball with the orange sugar topping.
  • Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden.
  • Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.

Notes

These cookies are perfect on their own or paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They store well in an airtight container for up to one week.
Keyword Baking, Cranberry Cookies, Dessert Recipes, holiday cookies, Orange Cookies