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Soft and Chewy Cranberry Orange Cookies with Zesty Glaze

A stack of freshly baked cranberry orange cookies drizzled with white icing, resting on a white plate.

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Make these soft and chewy Cranberry Orange Cookies for a bright, festive treat. They combine tart dried cranberries with fresh orange zest and are topped with a simple citrus glaze. This easy recipe is perfect for holiday baking.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 3/4 cup dried cranberries
  • For the Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar
  • For the Glaze: 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg and the fresh orange zest until just combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the dried cranberries using a spatula.
  6. Scoop the dough using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop and place mounds onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each mound.
  7. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft.
  8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Add more juice, a drop at a time, if the glaze is too thick.
  10. Once the cookies are fully cool, drizzle the zesty orange glaze over the tops. Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing.

Notes

  • For extra bright flavor, use two oranges for zest and juice.
  • To make these cookies ahead, chill the dough for up to 2 days before baking.
  • If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the glaze amount or omit it entirely.

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