Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of oranges. These cookies are not just tasty; they also have a lovely festive look, making them an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a burst of flavor. With their sweet and tangy taste, they provide a refreshing twist that is different from traditional cookies. The process of making them is straightforward, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you enjoy them on your own or share them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to please everyone.

Imagine pulling these cookies out of the fridge, slicing them up, and popping them in the oven. The moment the sweet aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll know you made a great choice. Not only are they delicious, but they also look beautiful, especially when drizzled with icing. Perfect for any occasion, these Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies truly shine in both flavor and presentation.

Ingredients about Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

To make Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

List of ingredients with measurements

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus more for rolling
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 3/4 cup very finely chopped dried cranberries
• Optional coarse sugar for rolling

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• Butter: You can use margarine or coconut oil as a butter substitute.
• Granulated sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Egg: A flaxseed meal mixed with water can serve as a vegan alternative for the egg.
• All-purpose flour: Almond flour can be a gluten-free option.
• Dried cranberries: Chopped dried cherries or raisins can be a lovely substitute.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Making Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies is fun and simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by gathering your ingredients. In a large bowl, take the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together for about 2 minutes until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

Now comes the dry ingredients! Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, beating on low speed to avoid a flour cloud in your kitchen. Once combined, pour in the orange juice and add the orange zest. Finally, fold in the finely chopped dried cranberries until they are evenly distributed. The dough may feel a bit sticky, and that’s perfectly normal.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Once your dough is prepared, it’s time to shape it. Sprinkle some flour onto your work surface and turn out the dough. Divide it in half. Take one half and roll it into a log shape about 7 to 8 inches long. Repeat this step with the second half of the dough. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and chill them in the fridge for at least 3 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice the cookies later.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Baking

After chilling, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. If you’re using coarse sugar, now is the time to roll your chilled dough logs in it for a nice sugary finish. When you’re ready, take a log out of the fridge and unwrap it.

Step 4: Slice and Bake

Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange these slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them as the cookies will spread a little while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 13 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a moment before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Icing the Cookies

While your cookies cool, it’s time to prepare the icing. In a bowl, whisk together the sifted confectioner’s sugar and orange juice until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you want an extra punch of orange flavor, feel free to add more orange zest. Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the icing over them. Allow the icing to set before serving.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies can be served in various delightful ways. Here’s how to bring the best out of this treat:

Best ways to serve Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

The best way to serve these cookies is to plate them beautifully. Arrange them on a colorful platter or stack them neatly in a clear glass jar. This not only makes them look enticing but also keeps them fresh. You can also garnish the plate with some fresh cranberries or orange slices for a pop of color and a nice festive touch.

Serving suggestions or pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They can also make a sweet contrast to a creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful dessert experience. For a holiday gathering, serve them alongside other baked goods for a variety of flavors that guests can enjoy.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Storing your cookies right is essential to keep them fresh and tasty. Here’s how to do it effectively.

Proper storage methods

Once cooled, place your Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies in an airtight container. If you have multiple layers of cookies, make sure to place parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together. Store the container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, consider refrigerating them.

Tips for reheating or freezing

For a warm, freshly-baked taste, you can reheat cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes. If you need to freeze your cookies, do so in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then package them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat.

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is not chilling the dough long enough. This step is crucial as it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. If the dough is too soft when you slice it, the cookies may spread too much in the oven. Also, be sure not to overmix the dough once you add flour, as it can lead to tough cookies.

Helpful tips for better results

For the best flavor, use fresh orange juice and zest. Also, feel free to taste the dough at different stages to adjust the sweetness to your preference. If you want a stronger cranberry flavor, consider adding a bit more dried cranberries. Use a sharp knife for slicing the logs to get clean cuts, which will help the cookies bake evenly.

Variation of Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipe, you can try around with different variations. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started:

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

Consider adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy texture. You can also swap the dried cranberries for dried blueberries or cherries for a different fruity flavor. For a chocolate twist, mix in dark chocolate chips along with the cranberries for a creamy, chocolaty experience.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

If you’re making cookies for someone with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to adjust this recipe. For gluten-free cookies, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use vegan butter and a flaxseed egg for a fully plant-based version. Adjust the amounts of sugar if you want a less sweet treat.

FAQs

You’ll find answers to some common questions about making Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies right here.

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cookies spread too much, make sure you chill the dough long enough next time. If they’re overly dry, you may have overbaked them, so watch the timer closely. Dough that is too sticky may need a little more flour, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can affect the texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before slicing and baking. If you want to make them further in advance, roll the logs and freeze them. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before slicing and baking.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you run out of a specific ingredient, there are many suitable substitutes. For example, if you don’t have granulated sugar, try using brown sugar or maple syrup. Coconut oil can replace butter in a dairy-free version. In place of orange juice, lemon juice can give a nice zest, although it will result in a different flavor.

These Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies are a fantastic recipe to try. With their unique flavors and lovely appearance, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who takes a bite. Happy baking!

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