Dark Chocolate Cranberry Orange Christmas Cookies With a Twist
What kind of recipe is it?
Christmas cookies are delightful festive treats that embody the spirit of the holiday season. These sweet confections offer a variety of flavors, shapes, and decorations, often infused with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
They aren’t only fun to bake but also serve as a creative outlet for individuals of all ages, making them perfect for family gatherings and holiday parties. Cooking these cookies fosters a sense of togetherness, allowing everyone from children to adults to join in on the joy of holiday baking.
These ingredients will help you create a delicious and festive batch of Christmas cookies that can be customized with your favorite flavors and decorations. Enjoy the baking process!
Cooking Steps
Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center to guarantee even heat distribution.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ¾ cups (340 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until well mixed and set aside.
In another large bowl, cream together 1 cup (227 g) of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup (165 g) of packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add in 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold together well.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, which helps prevent spreading during baking.
While the dough is chilling, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
After chilling, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough and roll into balls about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
Optional: Gently press the tops of the cookie balls with the back of a fork or your hand to flatten slightly, if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies should feel soft but not doughy.
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up as they cool.
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing by combining 2 cups (240 g) of powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of milk in a bowl until you reach your desired consistency.
If desired, add food coloring to the icing and mix until uniform. Once the cookies are fully cooled, drizzle or spread the icing on top and decorate with sprinkles or other decorations as desired.
Allow the icing to set for about 30 minutes before serving or storing, making sure cookies are placed in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Variations
Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Add ½ cup (90 g) of mini chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a festive flavor twist.
Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies: Substitute 2 ¾ cups (340 g) of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive diets.
Vegan Spiced Cookies: Replace the butter with 1 cup (240 ml) of coconut oil and the eggs with ½ cup (120 g) of unsweetened applesauce for a dairy and egg-free option.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Incorporate 1 cup (240 g) of canned pumpkin puree and reduce the butter to ½ cup (113 g) to create a seasonal, moist cookie with an autumnal flavor.
Tips on plating and presentation
While you might focus on the flavors when baking Christmas cookies, how you present them can elevate the entire experience. I love using a tiered stand to showcase my cookies, as it adds height and visual interest.
For a festive flair, I often line the trays with parchment paper or seasonal fabric that complements my cookie colors. When arranging, I like to vary the heights and shapes—mixing round cookies with decorative tree shapes can be eye-catching.
Finally, I sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzling melted chocolate over the top just before serving. A touch of fresh cranberries or orange slices nearby enhances the festive atmosphere.
Trust me, a little effort in presentation makes your cookies even more delightful!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Pairing Christmas cookies with complementary dishes can enhance your holiday celebrations.
I love serving my Dark Chocolate Cranberry Orange Christmas Cookies alongside a creamy cheese platter. The rich flavors of the cookies contrast beautifully with tangy cheeses like goat cheese or brie. You can also consider a charcuterie board filled with cured meats and dried fruits, which adds a savory balance.
If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, as the bright flavors echo the orange in the cookies.
Don’t forget to include some nuts for added texture! Each of these dishes brings out the unique taste of the cookies while creating a diverse and enjoyable spread for your guests.
What drinks can I pair it with?
To truly elevate your Christmascookie experience, consider the drinks you’ll serve alongside them.
I love pairing my dark chocolate cranberry orange cookies with a rich, bold cup of coffee or a delightful mug of hot chocolate. The coffee’s bitterness balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
If you prefer something a bit more festive, a spiced mulled wine or a warm glass of apple cider works wonders, too.
For those who want a lighter touch, a sparkling cranberry lemonade not only enhances the fruity notes in the cookies but also adds a revitalizing zing.
Don’t forget to offer some milk for a classic twist.
With these drink options, your cookie experience will be unforgettable! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use White Chocolate Instead of Dark Chocolate?
Sure, you can use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate! Just keep in mind that the flavor will change, so adjust other ingredients if needed. I’ve done it before, and it turned out delicious!
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I usually keep mine in the fridge for even longer shelf life, but they rarely last that long around here!
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! I often do this for convenience. Just scoop it into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container for storage. Enjoy baking later!
Are There Gluten-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
I often use almond flour or coconut flour as gluten-free alternatives. They work great in cookie recipes, and they add unique flavors. Just make sure to adjust the ratios for the best results!
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones. I’ve tried it myself, and the tartness adds a vibrant flavor. Just chop them finely to guarantee they blend well into the recipe!
