Cranberry Orange Soft Winter Star Cookies are a delightful treat that encapsulates the cozy essence of the holiday season. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange brings a burst of flavor to each bite, making these cookies a perfect companion for festive gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire. I’ve made these cookies countless times, and they never fail to impress—especially with their charming star shape that adds a whimsical touch to any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are many reasons to whip up a batch of these winter star cookies! First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring only basic pantry staples. The recipe is beginner-friendly, so even those new to baking can enjoy success. Plus, the vibrant flavor profile—thanks to fresh orange juice and zest—pairs beautifully with the sweetness of dried cranberries, offering a refreshing twist on traditional cookies.
These cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations, cookie exchanges, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones during the colder months. They also make for lovely gifts, whether you package them in a decorative tin or present them on a festive plate.
"These cookies have become a holiday staple in my house! The combination of cranberry and orange is simply irresistible." – A happy baker
Preparing Cranberry Orange Soft Winter Star Cookies
Creating these festive cookies is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The dough comes together quickly, and the fun part is using star-shaped cookie cutters to shape the cookies. A brief overview of the steps involves mixing dry ingredients, creaming butter and sugar, combining wet ingredients, and finally incorporating the dried cranberries. Let’s jump into what you’ll need!
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor or coconut sugar in lieu of granulated sugar for a deeper sweetness.
