Cranberry Orange WinterGlow Cookies (Print Version)
Soft cookies featuring orange zest and cranberries with a luscious cream cheese swirl.
# Ingredients:
→ Main Dough
01 -
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar
03 -
1 large egg
04 -
1 teaspoon orange zest (zest of 1 orange)
05 -
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 -
1 teaspoon baking powder
→ Filling and Mix-ins
07 -
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
08 -
3/4 cup dried cranberries or chopped fresh/frozen cranberries
09 -
Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
10 -
Optional: sanding sugar for topping
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until mixture is light and fluffy.
03 -
Incorporate the egg and orange zest, mixing until evenly combined and aromatic.
04 -
Whisk together flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add to butter mixture, folding until a soft dough forms.
05 -
Spoon small amounts (about 1/2 teaspoon) of softened cream cheese onto portions of dough or gently swirl into each dough section.
06 -
Gently fold cranberries and, if using, white chocolate chips into dough to distribute evenly without overmixing.
07 -
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Flatten each slightly and press extra cranberries on top for decoration.
08 -
Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are set and tops appear pale golden. Avoid overbaking to ensure a creamy center.
09 -
Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 4–5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with sanding or powdered sugar before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For a brighter flavor, use fresh orange zest and avoid overbaking so the centers remain tender and creamy.