Name: Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies for a Festive Twist
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Frozen Cranberries (Defrost before using); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (From one orange); 2 tablespoons Orange Juice (Fresh or bottled); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (At room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can substitute with lower sugar options); 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour (Measure correctly); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (aluminum-free) (Leavening agent); ¼ teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor); ½ cup Craisins (Dried Cranberries) (Can substitute with other dried fruits)

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As the scent of orange zest wafts through the air, I find myself transported to cozy holiday gatherings, surrounded by laughter and joy. This year, I can’t wait to share my Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies, a festive delight that combines chewy texture with a sweet burst of cranberry-orange flavor. These eye-catching treats are not only visually stunning with their shimmering sugar coat, but they’re also an eggless recipe, making them perfect for everyone to enjoy. In just a little over thirty minutes, you can whip up a batch that’ll impress family and friends alike—ideal for gifting or adding to your dessert spread. How will you make these cookies your own this holiday season?

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Why Will You Love These Cookies?

Delightfully Chewy: Each bite of these Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies offers a perfect blend of chewy texture and sweet cranberry-orange flavor.

Vibrant Color: Their stunning plum hue, enhanced by a sparkling sugar coating, makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.

Quick & Easy: With just over thirty minutes needed from start to finish, you can whip up these holiday treats effortlessly—perfect for impromptu gatherings or gifting!

Eggless Recipe: This recipe caters to various dietary needs, ensuring that everyone gets to enjoy these festive delights.

Customizable Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding white chocolate or spices to create your unique twist! For other fun ideas, check out my recipes for Pistachio Cream Cookies and Brownie Cookie Dough Sandwich Cookies.

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Frozen Cranberries – Adds tartness and moisture; soften fresh cranberries if you choose to use them.
Orange Zest – Provides aromatic citrus notes that enhance the flavor and elevate the overall sweetness.
Orange Juice – Contributes sweetness and acidity; feel free to use fresh juice or bottled for convenience.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and texture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and promotes browning; you can substitute with lower sugar options if desired.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; measure it correctly to maintain the desired texture.
Baking Powder (aluminum-free) – Acts as a leavening agent for a lighter cookie texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor and is necessary even in sweet recipes.
Craisins (Dried Cranberries) – Adds extra chewiness and sweetness; consider substituting with other dried fruits if you like.

Each of these ingredients plays a vital role in creating the delicious Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies you’re eager to bake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries
Begin by defrosting 1 cup of frozen cranberries in a bowl at room temperature until they are soft and juicy, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. If you are using fresh cranberries, soften them slightly before measuring. Once ready, the cranberries should have a vibrant color and a juicy texture, setting the foundation for the flavor in your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.

Step 2: Create the Cranberry Puree
In a food processor, combine the softened cranberries with the zest of one orange and about 2 tablespoons of orange juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined, aiming for a vibrant puree that will infuse your cookies with sweetness and depth. Measure out ⅔ cup of this puree and set it aside to incorporate into the dough later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter (at room temperature) and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take around 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture appears pale and has a slightly airy texture, providing the perfect sweetness for your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cranberry Puree
Gradually add the prepared cranberry puree into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed until everything is smoothly blended together. This step is crucial as it introduces the holiday flavor you want for your cookies. Make sure the mixture is uniform and slightly glossy, indicating that the flavors are well combined.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of aluminum-free baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will form the backbone of your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies. Gradually add it to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated—don’t overdo it! The dough should look slightly thick but still homogenous.

Step 6: Fold in the Craisins
Gently fold in ½ cup of Craisins (dried cranberries) with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This added chewiness will complement the tartness of the mustard cranberries and create delightful bursts of flavor in each cookie. Ensure each bite of the Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies is packed with a tasty mix of textures.

Step 7: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This is an important step that helps the dough firm up, making it easier to scoop and ensuring a chewier cookie texture after baking. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels slightly firmer to the touch.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the oven is warm, scoop rounded tablespoons of the chilled dough and roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The sparkly sugar coating is what gives these Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies their festive appeal.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges yet still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as they’ll finish firming up while cooling. The tempting aroma will fill your kitchen, giving a hint of the delicious cookies to come!

Step 10: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. You’ll notice they firm up as they cool while maintaining that chewy texture. Store your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh and delightful for up to five days!

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Make Ahead Options

These Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to mix all the ingredients, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled or frozen dough (allow to thaw if frozen) into balls, roll them in sugar, and then bake as directed. This method not only saves you time on busy days but also ensures you have delicious holiday treats at your fingertips, just as fresh and chewy as if you’d baked them today!

Expert Tips for Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Thaw Cranberries Fully: Ensure frozen cranberries are completely defrosted to release moisture, enhancing the cookie’s chewy texture.

Chill the Dough: Chilling not only firms the dough for easier handling but also results in a chewier cookie after baking.

Don’t Overbake: Cookies may seem soft when you take them out; they’ll firm up as they cool. Aim for a light golden edge for the best texture.

Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies—too much flour can lead to a dry outcome.

Test Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding white chocolate or spices like cinnamon to customize your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them chewy and fresh, perfect for holiday snacking.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. They’ll be ready to delight your taste buds again!

Dough Freezing: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls. Once frozen, store them in a zip-top bag; bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Variations

Feel free to tailor these festive cookies to your taste, adding delightful surprises with each batch!

White Chocolate: Add 1 cup of white chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet, creamy twist that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
Almond Joy: Mix in ½ cup of chopped almonds to give a lovely crunch and an almond flavor that pairs perfectly with the fruitiness.
Spiced Delight: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to create a warm, spiced version—perfect for cozy holiday gatherings.
Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute the Craisins with finely chopped dried apricots for a nut-free option that still offers sweetness and chewiness.
Mini Eggless Brownies: Swirl in brownie batter to make a delightful hybrid with your cookies. Simply drop spoonfuls of brownie batter into the cookie dough before baking!
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend; this way, everyone can indulge in these delicious cookies.
Add Heat: For a spicy kick, mix in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Pairing heat with the sweet brings an exciting depth of flavor!
Layered Treats: Try baking one layer of dough, then adding a layer of cream cheese frosting and topped with another layer of cookie dough before baking for decadence.

And if you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, don’t miss my recipes for Browned Butter Cookies or Caramel Chocolate Cookies.

What to Serve with Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Indulging in these vibrant cookies is a festive experience best complemented by delightful accompaniments.

Creamy Eggnog: Its spiced sweetness perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberry cookies, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Mulled Cider: Warm and aromatic, this drink adds a cozy touch, bringing out the flavors of cinnamon and citrus in the cookies.
Festive Cheese Board: Include creamy brie, tangy goat cheese, and some nuts for a savory touch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cookies.
Gingerbread Latte: The spiced coffee will elevate your dessert experience, creating a holiday blend that pairs deliciously with each chewy bite.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The richness of dark chocolate combined with fresh fruit offers a contrasting flavor that enhances the cookies’ fruitiness.

For a truly festive gathering, set the scene with a warm fire and share stories over a plate of Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies and these delicious pairings!

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Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use frozen cranberries as they add the perfect tartness and moisture. If you prefer fresh cranberries, make sure to soften them slightly before use.

How should I store the cookies?
To keep your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their delightful chewiness while ensuring they’re ready for your holiday snacking!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. After an hour, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.

How do I freeze the cookie dough?
To freeze the unbaked dough, scoop the dough into balls as per the recipe, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can place the dough directly in the oven, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Are there any allergy considerations?
Yes! The Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies are eggless, making them a suitable choice for those with egg allergies. However, be mindful of gluten if using all-purpose flour—consider a gluten-free flour blend if necessary. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens.