Ingredients

1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

1 large egg

2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh orange juice

1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest (about 1 large orange)

2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup (120g) dried cranberries, chopped

Optional: ½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips

Optional: ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts

Optional: Simple orange glaze for drizzling after baking

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Beat in the egg until fully combined. Then add the fresh orange juice and orange zest, mixing until evenly distributed.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries along with optional white chocolate chips or nuts, if using.

Step 7: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers remain soft.

Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: If desired, drizzle with a simple orange glaze for extra flavor and a pretty finish.

Tips & Variations

For a sweeter treat, add white chocolate chips to the dough along with the cranberries.

Toast chopped pecans or walnuts before adding for a richer nutty flavor and crunch.

If you like a stronger orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract to the wet ingredients.

Use frozen cranberries chopped finely if fresh dried cranberries are unavailable.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries have a much higher moisture content and tartness. If you choose to use them, chop finely and consider reducing other liquids slightly, but dried cranberries are best for maintaining the texture of these cookies.

How do I make the simple orange glaze?

A simple orange glaze can be made by mixing powdered sugar with a small amount of fresh orange juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more juice or sugar as needed, then drizzle over cooled cookies.