Indulge in Festive Delights with Cranberry Walnut Cookies
Embrace the flavors of the holiday season with a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the nuttiness of walnuts – Cranberry Walnut Cookies. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for festive gatherings, afternoon snacks, or as a sweet indulgence any time of the year. Join us as we explore the magic of Cranberry Walnut Cookies and learn how to create this delightful dessert from scratch.
Ingredients:
- Produce:
- 2 1/2 cups cranberries (fresh or dried)
- Refrigerated:
- 1 egg
- Baking & Spices:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup white sugar
- Nuts & Seeds:
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- Drinks:
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- Dairy:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and orange juice until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in the cranberries and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
3. Shape and Bake the Cookies:
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooled, dust the cookies with confectioners’ sugar for a festive touch.
- Serve the Cranberry Walnut Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Dried Cranberries: If using dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the dough to rehydrate them slightly.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version of the cookies.
- Orange Zest: Add grated orange zest to the dough for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Low-Carb Swaps: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb option.
- Sugar Substitutes: Use a sugar substitute such as erythritol or stevia in place of the white sugar and brown sugar to reduce the carb content of the cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the dough.
Q: How should I store leftover cookies? A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking the cookies.
In conclusion, Cranberry Walnut Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. With their vibrant colors and irresistible flavors, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a festive gathering or simply enjoying them as a sweet snack, Cranberry Walnut Cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. So why not whip up a batch of these delicious cookies and spread some holiday cheer?
