Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest (from about 1 medium orange)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped (you can use sweetened or unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended for added sweetness)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures a consistent texture in your cookies.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This process incorporates air, which helps the cookies rise.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is fully incorporated and smooth. The egg adds moisture and richness, while the vanilla enhances the flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
- Incorporate Flavor Elements: Gently fold in the fresh orange zest, chopped dried cranberries, and white chocolate chips (if using). The orange zest will provide a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a rounded tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows space for the cookies to spread as they bake.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.
- Use Fresh Cranberries: If you prefer a more tart flavor, you can use fresh cranberries; just chop them coarsely and reduce the sugar slightly to balance the tartness.
- Glaze Option: For a festive touch, mix powdered sugar with a little orange juice to create a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cookies for added sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Calories per Cookie: 180 kcal
- Servings: 24 cookies
Indulge in these delightful Cranberry Orange Cookies, perfect for sharing during the holiday season or enjoying as a sweet treat any time of the year!
Feel free to ask if you need more modifications or specific details!