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Crispy Cranberry Orange Thanksgiving Cookies

Crispy Cranberry Orange Thanksgiving Cookies - featured image

Delicate, shatteringly thin cookies with a perfect balance of tart cranberries and bright orange zest. These easy-to-make treats are crisp on the outside with a slight chew in the center, requiring no overnight chilling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated white sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (120g) dried cranberries
  • 1 large fresh orange (zest and 1 tablespoon juice)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for 3 minutes until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and beat until smooth and glossy.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until flour disappears. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in dried cranberries and fresh orange zest using a spatula.
  7. Chill dough for 30 minutes (optional but recommended to prevent spreading).
  8. Scoop dough balls onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden brown but centers look slightly soft.
  10. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

Butter temperature is critical; it should be softened like playdough, not melted. Do not substitute brown sugar as it adds moisture and chewiness. For best crispness, store in an airtight container. If cookies soften, crisp them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry cookies, orange cookies, Thanksgiving dessert, crispy cookies, holiday baking, easy cookie recipe, fall baking