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Chewy Cranberry Orange Cookies with Zesty Glaze

A stack of four delicious cranberry orange cookies drizzled with sweet white glaze, resting on a white plate.

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Make these soft, chewy cranberry orange cookies, perfect for holiday baking. They feature bright citrus zest and tart cranberries, finished with a simple orange glaze for extra flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
  • For the Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar
  • For the Glaze: 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, and 1/4 cup orange juice until combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, if using.
  7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should still look slightly soft for a chewy texture.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Prepare the glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. Add more juice, a half teaspoon at a time, if the glaze is too thick.
  11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Let the glaze set before serving or storing.

Notes

  • For a stronger orange flavor, use fresh orange juice instead of bottled in the dough.
  • If you prefer a slice-and-bake shortbread texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before slicing and baking.
  • These make excellent Christmas cookie exchange favorites.

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