White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are the perfect blend of creamy white chocolate, zesty orange, and tart cranberries. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them ideal for holidays, special occasions, or a simple treat with a cup of coffee. With a vibrant color palette and balanced flavors, they’re an instant crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet baking day at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet white chocolate complements the tangy cranberries beautifully.
- Holiday Favorite: The combination of cranberries and orange zest makes these cookies festive and vibrant.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for last-minute baking.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free options.
Ingredients
For 36 Cookies:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 Tbsp or 1.5 sticks), at room temperature: Ensures soft and chewy cookies.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and crisp edges.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Enhances chewiness and adds a subtle molasses flavor.
- 2 tsp grated orange zest: Adds a refreshing citrus aroma.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 large egg, room temperature: Helps bind the dough.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a GF version.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chips: Melts into creamy pockets of sweetness.
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (coarsely chopped) or 1 cup dried cranberries: Adds a tart contrast to the sweet dough.
How to Make White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix until the texture is light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air for a soft cookie.
- Add the egg and beat well until fully incorporated. Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract for a burst of aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined and the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 4: Fold in Cranberries and Chocolate Chips
- Using a stiff spatula, gently fold in the cranberries and white chocolate chips. Ensure even distribution of the mix-ins for consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Shape and Arrange
- Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or your hands. Uniform sizes ensure even baking.
- Place the balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. For dried cranberries, reduce baking time to 11-13 minutes.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for the best texture.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make cookies dense and tough. Mix until just combined.
- Use Fresh Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, chop them coarsely for even distribution and balance of tartness.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies in the last few minutes of baking to avoid overbaking.
- Test Bake One Cookie: If unsure about the dough’s consistency or baking time, bake a single cookie first as a test.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Hot Beverage: Pair these cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. The sweet and tart flavors balance beautifully with warm drinks.
- Holiday Gift: Package these cookies in decorative tins or gift boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift. Add a festive ribbon for an extra-special touch.
- Dessert Spread: Include them in a cookie platter with other holiday favorites like gingerbread cookies and shortbread. Their vibrant colors make them stand out.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of vanilla or cranberry-flavored ice cream between two cookies for a delightful dessert.
- Breakfast Treat: Enjoy them as a morning treat with yogurt and fresh fruit for a light yet indulgent breakfast.
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use dairy-free white chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Extra Citrus Flavor: Increase orange zest to 1 tablespoon for a bolder citrus taste.
- Dark Chocolate Swap: Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Oatmeal Blend: Mix in 1/2 cup of rolled oats for a heartier texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 82 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 11 mg
- Sodium: 23 mg
- Vitamin C: 1 mg
Nutritional Highlights
- Balanced Sweetness: Low-calorie treat with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Moderate Sugar Content: Enjoy without the guilt of overindulgence.
- Customizable: Adjust the sugar or mix-ins to suit dietary preferences. Adding nuts or oats can boost fiber and protein content.
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used. Thaw them slightly and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before adding to the dough. This prevents excess moisture from altering the cookie’s texture.
How Do I Store These Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 72 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.
What Can I Use Instead of White Chocolate Chips?
You can substitute with dark or milk chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips for a unique twist. Yogurt chips also work well for a tangy addition.
Are These Cookies Soft or Crunchy?
These cookies are soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges. Adjust baking time for a firmer or softer texture. For extra softness, slightly underbake and let them cool on the tray.
Conclusion
White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert repertoire. With their vibrant colors and balanced flavors, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of the holidays any time of year!