Cranberry Orange Dream Cookies

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Tangy cranberries. Zesty orange. Buttery dough. If that doesn’t already have your mouth watering, these Cranberry Orange Dream Cookies will do the trick. They’re soft, chewy, citrusy-sweet, and absolutely packed with bright holiday flavor—though we promise, they’re too good to wait for winter.

These cookies are like sunshine in snack form. Fresh orange zest adds brightness to the dough, while dried cranberries bring just the right balance of tart and sweet. And when you add a glossy orange glaze on top? Pure magic. They’re festive, flavorful, and far more impressive than the effort it takes to make them.

What makes this recipe extra special is the contrast of textures. The cookie base is soft and thick, the cranberries add chewy pops of flavor, and the orange glaze gives a sweet citrusy finish that ties everything together. It’s one of those “just one more” cookies you won’t be able to stop reaching for.

While they look bakery-worthy, these cookies are easy enough for beginner bakers and quick enough for busy days. No chilling, no fancy equipment, and no stress. Just real, fresh flavor in every bite.

Perfect for holiday cookie trays, bake sales, or cozy afternoons with a hot cup of tea, these cookies also make gorgeous edible gifts—especially when stacked and wrapped in clear bags or tins.

Looking for a little variation? Swap walnuts for pecans or skip the nuts altogether. Use fresh cranberries for a sharper zing, or white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast.

And let’s talk about that glaze. It’s simple, sweet, and spiked with orange zest, creating a delicate finish that sets perfectly and adds visual (and flavorful) sparkle.

They freeze beautifully too—both baked and unbaked. So you can whip up a double batch and always have some on hand for a cookie emergency.

This is a cookie that impresses across the board. Kids love them. Adults love them. They disappear from plates at parties and potlucks in no time.

They’re soft, flavorful, and just different enough from the usual chocolate chip or sugar cookie to stand out.

With these Cranberry Orange Dream Cookies, you get all the cozy, nostalgic vibes of holiday baking—without the seasonal limitations. They’re truly great any time of year.

So grab your citrus zester and get ready to fill your kitchen with the scent of orange and butter. It’s cookie time.

Servings: 36 cookies

Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 13 minutes
• Cooling & Glazing: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 48 minutes

Ingredients:

Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 1 tsp grated orange zest
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups chopped dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tbsp orange juice
• 1/2 tsp orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, orange juice, and orange zest until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
6. Fold in cranberries and walnuts (if using).
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough 2 inches apart onto prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
10. For the glaze: Mix powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth.
11. Drizzle glaze over completely cooled cookies and let set.

Tips:

• Use fresh orange zest for the brightest flavor.
• Dried cranberries work best for consistency, but fresh ones can be used for extra tang.
• Let cookies cool fully before glazing to avoid melting.
• Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Soft, chewy texture with bursts of tart cranberries.
• Bright citrus flavor in both cookie and glaze.
• Great for gifting and gatherings.
• Easy, fuss-free baking with standout results.
• A crowd favorite that’s refreshingly different.

Cranberry Orange Dream Cookies are buttery, bright, and bursting with citrus and cranberry flavor. Finished with a sweet orange glaze, they’re perfect for any occasion—from holiday spreads to everyday cravings.