cranberry cookies

How to Make Classic Cranberry Cookies: A Simple Guide

Cranberry cookies are a delightful treat, blending sweet, tart flavors with a buttery crunch. Here’s an easy, step-by-step guide to baking perfect batches every time.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1 large egg

- 2 tsp vanilla extract

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 tsp baking soda

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 1 cup dried cranberries (fresh or frozen work too)

- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just blended. Avoid overmixing.

5. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in dried cranberries (and optional add-ins).

6. Shape & Bake: Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges turn golden.

7. Cool: Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success:

- For extra flavor, soak cranberries in warm water for 10 minutes before draining.

- Chill dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading.

- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Enjoy these chewy, cranberry-studded cookies with a glass of milk or tea!