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Chewy Cranberry Orange Cookies with Zest Glaze

Three chewy cranberry orange cookies stacked on a white plate, drizzled with white icing.

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Bake soft, chewy cranberry orange cookies balanced with tart cranberries and bright orange zest, finished with a simple citrus glaze. These are perfect for holiday baking or a simple winter dessert.

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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice (for glaze)

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, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. 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 1 tablespoon of orange juice until smooth. Add more juice, a few drops at a time, to reach a drizzling consistency.
  11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Let the glaze set before serving.

Notes

  • For a slice and bake option, chill the dough in a log shape for at least 2 hours before slicing and baking.
  • If you prefer a shortbread texture, reduce the orange juice in the dough to 2 tablespoons.
  • Use fresh orange zest for the strongest citrus flavor.

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