Cranberry Orange Cookies with Sweet Citrus Glaze
Few treats capture the spirit of the festive season quite like Cranberry Orange Cookies. These irresistible cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart, with bursts of vibrant cranberries nestled inside a soft, tender cookie base. A gentle hint of orange zest drifts through every bite, creating a refreshing citrus aroma that feels both comforting and elegant.
What truly elevates these cookies is the delicate orange glaze drizzled over the top. It adds a glossy finish, a pop of brightness, and just the right amount of zing to complement the buttery dough. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, preparing a homemade gift, or simply craving a bakery-quality cookie at home, this recipe delivers exceptional flavor with simple ingredients.
Ingredients and Their Purpose
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides richness, moisture, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture essential for soft cookies.
- 1 cup white sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create lightly crisp edges.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar – Enhances chewiness and adds a subtle caramel depth.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients and gives structure while keeping the cookies tender.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice – Infuses fresh citrus flavor and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest – The star flavor enhancer, delivering fragrant citrus oils.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the backbone of the cookie dough.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay soft.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and intensifies all flavors.
- 2 cups chopped cranberries – Add tart bursts of flavor and beautiful color.
For the Orange Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
- 2–3 tablespoons orange juice – Adds citrus flavor and thins the glaze to drizzle consistency.
- ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional) – Boosts aroma and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial for soft cookies. -
Add Wet Ingredients:
Mix in the egg until fully incorporated. Add the orange juice and orange zest, blending until smooth and fragrant. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. -
Fold in Cranberries:
Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. -
Chill the Dough:
Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and intensifies flavor. -
Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers are soft. -
Cool Completely:
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. -
Prepare the Glaze:
Whisk powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and let set.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
These cookies are adored for their soft texture, bright citrus flavor, and stunning festive appearance. The contrast between tart cranberries and sweet orange glaze makes every bite exciting yet comforting. They store well, travel beautifully, and look elegant on holiday cookie trays or gift boxes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Cookies
- Use fresh orange zest for maximum flavor—avoid bottled substitutes.
- Do not overbake; cookies should look slightly underdone in the center.
- Chop cranberries evenly to ensure balanced tartness in every bite.
- Let glaze set fully before stacking or packaging cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies alongside hot tea, spiced coffee, or warm cider for a cozy experience. They pair beautifully with a holiday dessert platter or make a thoughtful homemade gift wrapped in parchment and ribbon.
Final Thoughts
These Cranberry Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze prove that a truly spectacular dessert doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple pantry ingredients, bold seasonal flavors, and a polished bakery-style finish, this recipe delivers maximum impact with minimal effort. One bite, and you’ll understand why these cookies become a beloved tradition year after year.