Name: Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies You'll Love this Holiday
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Frozen Cranberries (Can substitute with fresh cranberries if softened.); zest of 1 Orange Zest (Use fresh for maximum flavor.); 2 tablespoons Orange Juice (Adjust based on cranberry mixture consistency.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Softened; can substitute with margarine.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Reduce if using homemade cranberry sauce.); 1½ cups All-Purpose Flour (Can swap with gluten-free blend.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Opt for aluminum-free.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Fine salt is best.); ½ cup Craisins/Dried Cranberries (Can replace with raisins.); ½ cup Sparkling Sugar (For a glittery finish.)

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When I first bit into a Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookie, it was like tasting the holidays in a single mouthful. These vibrant, chewy cookies harmonize the tartness of cranberries with a zesty pop of orange, creating a delightful treat that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Not only are they visually stunning, thanks to their sparkling sugar topping, but they’re also quick to whip up—perfect for those last-minute baking sessions. Plus, with their eggless recipe and adaptable variations, you can easily cater to different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re crafting a cookie platter or searching for the perfect edible gift, these cookies will brighten up the season. Ready to indulge in a festive baking adventure? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?

Unique Flavors: The tartness of cranberries paired with the zesty brightness of orange zest creates a flavor explosion that celebrates the season!

Visual Appeal: Who can resist a cookie that sparkles? The beautiful sugar topping enhances not just flavor but also adds to the festive atmosphere, making them perfect for gatherings.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time—which means more moments to enjoy with family and friends.

Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? These cookies can take on many forms, whether you make White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies or try a crisp and tangy Lemon Raspberry Cookies variation.

Diet Friendly: Being eggless means they’re suitable for those with allergies. Plus, they’re adaptable to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful treats!

Crowd-Pleasing: Every cookie is destined to impress, whether served at your holiday party or gifted to neighbors. Everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Frozen Cranberries – The main flavor source, offering juicy tartness; fresh cranberries can be used but may need softening first.
Orange Zest – Adds a vibrant citrus aroma and flavor; always opt for fresh zest to maximize taste.
Orange Juice – Keeps the dough moist and flavorful; adjust the amount based on the consistency of your cranberry mixture.
Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and texture; make sure it’s softened, or substitute with margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies perfectly; consider reducing the amount if using homemade cranberry sauce due to its added sugars.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure of the cookies; can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend if necessary.
Baking Powder – Ensures a light and chewy texture; opt for aluminum-free for the best taste.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; fine salt works best for even distribution.
Craisins/Dried Cranberries – Adds texture and extra sweetness; feel free to replace with raisins or other dried fruits if you like.

For Topping

Sparkling Sugar – Provides a beautiful glittery finish; it’s perfect for those festive touches that make these cookies truly shine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Cranberries
Start by defrosting 1 cup of frozen cranberries in a bowl until soft, about 10-15 minutes. Once thawed, blend the cranberries with the zest of one orange and 2 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. Measure out ⅔ cup of this vibrant mixture and set it aside, ensuring you’re ready to infuse your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies with this fruity goodness.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Whip until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The airy texture will help create the chewy centers of your cookies, a hallmark of the Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
With your butter and sugar mixture ready, carefully incorporate the cranberry blend prepared in step 1. Mix on low speed until everything is fully combined and you have a cohesive, colorful dough. The vibrant color will signal that you have effectively combined your flavors, setting the stage for delicious cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a ½ teaspoon of fine salt into the mixture. Use a spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Gently stir in ½ cup of Craisins to add delightful bites of sweetness to your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Once combined, cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap, allowing the dough to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step helps to firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into cookies while also enhancing the flavors in your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.

Step 6: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the dough chills. After 30 minutes, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and lightly roll them into balls. Roll each ball in a bowl of sparkling sugar for that festive touch. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space in between, and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden yet the centers remain soft.

Step 7: Cool Cookies
Once baked, remove the Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This will ensure they maintain their chewy texture and absorb those wonderful flavors, ready to be enjoyed or gifted.

Make Ahead Options

These Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling it in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap, minimizing air exposure to maintain its quality. Alternatively, you can scoop and roll the dough balls, then freeze them for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time. When ready to serve, simply bake your chilled or frozen dough, and enjoy bakery-fresh cookies with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Thaw Cranberries Fully: Ensure frozen cranberries are completely thawed and juicy. This step enhances the flavor and moisture of your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.
Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookies, use a small cookie scoop. This ensures even baking and consistent texture, preventing some cookies from overbaking.
Don’t Overmix Dough: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, detracting from their chewy delight.
Chill Dough Properly: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to shape and helps enhance flavors, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly chewy.
Bake Until Soft: Remove cookies from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers still appear soft. They will firm up while cooling, keeping that desirable chewiness.
Store Properly: Keep cookies covered at room temperature to maintain their delicious chewiness for up to five days, making them a tasty treat throughout the week.

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delightful cookies your own with these fun and easy variations!

White Chocolate Twist: Swap out some of the granulated sugar for white chocolate chunks for a creamy contrast against the tart cranberries.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped almonds or walnuts for a crunch that complements the chewy texture perfectly. Each bite will bring a delightful surprise!
Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon along with the orange for a brighter, tarter flavor profile. This simple twist enhances the freshness of the cookies significantly.
Cranberry Almond Cookies: Replace Craisins with chopped dried almonds and include almond extract in the dough. This creates a lovely nutty richness that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
Glazed Goodness: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and fresh orange juice over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and a festive flair.
Spiced Sensation: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Fruity Fusion: Toss in some chopped dried apricots or pineapple instead of Craisins for a tropical twist that adds a different dimension of flavor.

These variations can make your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies even more exciting. If you’re looking for a delightful cookie platter, you might also enjoy making Lemon Raspberry Cookies or Blueberry Cookies Soft for a colorful mix!

What to Serve with Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Delight in a full festive spread that complements your sparkling treats beautifully!

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety drink that pairs perfectly with the chewy, tart cookies, warming your heart as much as your taste buds.
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: These crunchy, spiced bites provide a delightful contrast to the soft cookies, adding a touch of holiday warmth with every nibble.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of a scoop of ice cream creates a heavenly combination, enhancing the chewy sweetness of your cookies.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A bright medley of fresh fruits offers a refreshing balance, cutting through sweetness while highlighting the zing of cranberries.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal drink mirrors the warm spices found in holiday recipes, creating a cozy pairing as you savor each cookie bite.
Cheesecake Bars: Creamy and rich, these bars add an extra layer of festive indulgence, offering contrasting flavors that mesh deliciously with the cookies.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and fragrant, this drink elevates the holiday spirit, beautifully balancing the tartness of your sparkling cookies.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The sweet-and-salty contrast of these snacks complements the vibrant flavors of cranberries while adding a satisfying crunch.
Classic Gingerbread Cookies: For a nostalgic treat, serve these alongside your cranberry delights; their spicy notes harmonize splendidly during the holiday season.

How to Store and Freeze Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture.

Fridge: If you live in a particularly warm climate, consider refrigerating the cookies, where they can last up to 7 days, just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Unbaked Dough: Freeze the cookie dough in scoop-sized portions, wrapped tightly. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time for freshly baked Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing cranberries, look for firm, plump berries with a vibrant color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkling, as these may indicate overripeness. If using frozen cranberries, ensure they’re thawed properly to release their juices for optimal flavor.

How should I store the baked Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies?
Once cooled, you can keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps retain their delightful chewiness! If they’re in a particularly warm environment, you might want to consider refrigerating them for up to a week. Don’t forget to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze baked cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

How do I freeze unbaked cookie dough?
Great question! To freeze unbaked dough, scoop it into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze until hard, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them directly from frozen—just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time for freshly baked Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! These cookies are eggless, making them suitable for those with egg allergies. For gluten-free options, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if you’re using mix-ins like Craisins or nuts.

What should I do if my cookies come out too dry or crumbly?
If your cookies turn out dry, it may be due to overmixing or baking too long. Make sure not to overbake—remove them when the edges are golden but the centers still look soft. If you find the dough too dry initially, you can add an extra tablespoon of orange juice to help with moisture before baking.