Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies: 24 Festive Treats to Enjoy

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Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright zest of orange. These cookies are buttery, soft, and have a shortbread-like texture that makes them irresistible. Perfect for festive occasions or as an everyday snack, they are easy to prepare and can be stored for later enjoyment. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

These cookies are not just delectable; they are also versatile and appealing for a variety of occasions. Here’s why you’ll love them:

They are incredibly easy to make, even for beginners, making this an Easy Cranberry Orange Cookie Recipe.
The combination of flavors creates a beautiful balance of sweetness and tartness.
Chilling the dough enhances the orange flavor, making each bite refreshing.
These cookies can be prepared ahead of time, making them convenient for busy schedules.
They can be served as part of a festive dessert platter, perfect for holiday gatherings.
These cookies are vegetarian-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences.
With a little creativity, you can explore Best Cranberry Orange Cookie Variations to keep things exciting.
They are perfect for gifting, adding a personal touch to your presents.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Gather these items:

3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar, plus more for rolling
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups + 2 Tablespoons (265g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons (30ml) orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest
3/4 cup (100g) very finely chopped dried cranberries (such as Craisins)
Optional: coarse sugar for rolling, such as sparkling sugar
1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
2 Tablespoons (30ml) orange juice
Optional: more orange zest for topping

How to Make Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until combined and creamy, about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract on high speed. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to fully incorporate all ingredients.
Step 3: Add the all-purpose flour and salt and beat on low speed until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Beat in the orange juice, orange zest, and very finely chopped dried cranberries until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface; divide the dough in half. Roll or shape each half into a log about 7 to 8 inches long and approximately 2.5 inches in diameter.
Step 6: Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours and up to 5 days. Chilling is crucial for flavor melding and texture.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 8: Remove dough from refrigerator and roll each log in coarse sugar, pressing lightly to ensure the sugar sticks.
Step 9: Slice each sugar-coated log into 12 equally thick cookies and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 10: Bake the cookies for 13–15 minutes or until the edges are very lightly browned.
Step 11: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 12: Whisk together confectioners’ sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and optionally sprinkle with additional orange zest.
Step 13: Allow glaze to set for 30–60 minutes before storing or serving.
Step 14: Store cookies covered at room temperature for up to one week.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Chilling the dough enhances the orange flavor dramatically.
Use a sharp knife for clean cuts on the dough logs, ensuring uniform cookies.
Adjust baking time based on your oven for best results, as oven temperatures can vary.
Consider adding chopped nuts or different dried fruits for Best Cranberry Orange Cookie Variations.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
They make a great addition to holiday dessert trays, complementing other festive treats.
Serve them at gatherings or parties as a sweet treat that everyone will love.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

Store cookies covered at room temperature for up to one week, maintaining their freshness and flavor. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before baking. This makes them a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies?

The secret lies in chilling the dough, which enhances the flavors and ensures a better texture. This step is crucial for achieving the desired soft yet firm consistency when baked.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. Chilling not only helps in flavor development but also allows you to slice and bake whenever you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep it gentle!

Variations of Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies You Can Try

Get creative with these delicious variations:

Incorporate different types of dried fruits like cherries or apricots for a unique twist.
Add nuts such as pecans or walnuts to give your cookies a delightful crunch.
Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile during the holidays.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Cranberry Chicken Wraps or Coconut Curry Noodle Soup for a delightful meal.

Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies: 24 Festive Treats to Enjoy - Cranberry Orange Icebox Cookies - additional detail

For more tips on baking, visit Banana Split Fruit Pizza or Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars.