If you’re after a cookie that practically bursts with citrusy cheer and tart-sweet goodness, you simply have to try Cranberry Orange Cookies. These treats fill the kitchen with the smell of sunshine, and every bite delivers a perfect balance of buttery softness, orange zest, and chewy cranberries. I love making these any time I want to brighten someone’s day or bring something extra-special to a cookie swap. Trust me, these cookies are guaranteed to win fans!

Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cranberry Orange Cookies lies in their straightforward ingredient list. Each component is essential — from the butter that keeps the cookies tender, to fresh orange peel for that irresistible zing. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Sugar: Gives the cookies their classic sweetness and helps create that sparkly exterior after rolling.
Butter (softened): Makes for a rich, soft crumb and blends everything together perfectly.
Egg: Adds structure and moisture so you’ll get cookies that hold together without being dry.
Flour: Provides the foundation for structure — don’t pack it in, spoon and level for the right texture.
Baking Powder: Lifts your cookies, making them slightly puffy and soft.
Baking Soda: Balances the acidity from the orange and makes the cookies lovely and tender.
Dried Cranberries (chopped): Adds sweet-tart bursts and a chewy texture in every bite.
Freshly Grated Orange Peel: Infuses every cookie with vivid, real orange fragrance and flavor.
Extra Sugar (for coating): Gives every cookie sparkle and just a little crunch on the outside.
Extra Orange Peel (for coating): Elevates the aroma and prettifies the sugar topping even more.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Sparkling Sugar Topping

Start by making your sugar mixture that will coat the outside of each cookie. In a small bowl, combine the extra 1/3 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon of freshly grated orange peel. Stir it up until the zest is evenly distributed. This step makes every cookie glisten and gives that fabulous first hit of orange flavor before your first bite even lands!

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Egg

Next, grab your mixing bowl and beat together the 1 cup sugar, softened butter, and egg. Don’t overdo it — just beat until everything’s combined and creamy. This is the base of your dough, and you’ll want it smooth but not whipped, so your cookies will be plush and tender.

Step 3: Blend in the Dry Ingredients

Reduce your mixer speed and gradually add the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix until the flour is about halfway incorporated — this helps prevent tough cookies.

Step 4: Add the Zest and Cranberries

Measure out the tablespoon of freshly grated orange peel and toss in the chopped dried cranberries. Turn the mixer back on low (or use a spatula) and fold everything together until just combined. Over-mixing at this stage can make cookies dense, so stop as soon as you see no streaks of flour.

Step 5: Shape and Roll

Scoop up about a tablespoonful of dough and roll it gently between your palms to form a one-inch ball. Drop each dough ball into the sparkling orange sugar, roll it around until evenly coated, and set it on an ungreased cookie sheet about two inches apart for even baking.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pop your tray into a 350 degree oven and bake for 7 to 11 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to take on a light golden brown hue. Don’t overbake — these cookies should be just set, so they stay soft after cooling. Let them rest for a minute on the tray, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cookies

Garnishes

For a pinch of elegance, try sprinkling a bit of extra orange zest on top just before serving — or even a light dusting of powdered sugar. If you love a festive look, a drizzle of melted white chocolate is absolutely dreamy alongside these bright flavors.

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better with Cranberry Orange Cookies than a mug of hot tea or a creamy latte. If you’re serving a dessert platter, these cookies are gorgeous next to chocolate-dipped strawberries or a few pieces of dark chocolate.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them up in clear gift bags tied with a ribbon for a cheerful homemade present. For a brunch table, arrange the cookies on a tiered stand with slices of fresh citrus and extra cranberries scattered around. They also make a pretty finishing touch on a holiday cookie tray!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cranberry Orange Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to four days — if they last that long! Layering with parchment can help prevent sticking if you’re stacking multiple layers.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead, these cookies freeze beautifully. Lay cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Frozen cookies keep for up to two months — just let them thaw at room temperature whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

Craving that just-baked warmth? Pop a cookie in the microwave for five to ten seconds. This softens it and revives the citrusy aroma, making each bite as enjoyable as day one. Resist the temptation to overheat, as they’re meant to be soft and chewy, not dry.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries work best for this recipe because fresh ones can add too much moisture, which changes the cookie’s texture. If you prefer more tartness, you can try subbing half the dried cranberries with fresh, finely chopped cranberries — just be mindful the cookies may spread more.

What’s the best way to zest an orange?

A microplane or fine grater is your best friend! Always zest the orange before you cut or juice it, and only take the orange part of the peel since the white pith underneath can taste bitter.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake later?

Absolutely! Make the dough and refrigerate it (well wrapped) for up to 48 hours. When ready to bake, let the dough soften a bit at room temperature, then proceed with shaping and rolling in the sugar mixture as usual.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of Cranberry Orange Cookies?

Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend usually works great for this recipe. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure and check all your other ingredients for gluten if you’re serving someone with an allergy.

Why do my Cranberry Orange Cookies get dry or crumbly?

The most common reason is overbaking, so watch them closely and pull them out when the edges are just turning golden. Also, be sure to measure your flour accurately — too much can make cookies dense and crumbly rather than tender.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give Cranberry Orange Cookies a try! There’s just something magical about how the orange and cranberry flavors burst through each bite, making every batch a bright spot in your week. Bake a batch for yourself or share with a friend — you’ll be glad you did!

Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 8 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Makes about 2 dozen cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These delightful Cranberry Orange Cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors. The chewy cranberries and zesty orange peel make these cookies a festive treat for any occasion.

Instructions

Sugar Mixture: Combine all sugar mixture ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well mixed. Set aside.
Cookies:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a bowl, combine 1 cup sugar, butter, and egg. Beat until just combined and creamy.
3. Reduce speed and add flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Beat until half combined, then add orange peel and cranberries. Mix until just combined.
4. Shape dough into one inch balls and roll in sugar mixture.
5. Place on ungreased cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 7-11 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Do not over bake.
7. Cool for 1 minute before removing from the cookie sheet.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American