Very few things in life are as comforting as the smell of cookies baking in the oven. These soft baked white chocolate chip cranberry cookies are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them a hit for any occasion. Let’s dive into why these cookies are a must-bake!
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Using brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the white chocolate.
- The cookies are baked just until the edges are golden, ensuring a soft and chewy center.
- Chilling the dough before baking prevents the cookies from spreading too much, giving them the perfect thickness.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit any taste.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents throughout your dough.
Cream Butter and Sugars
Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, contributing to the cookies’ soft texture.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to ensure a smooth dough.
Combine and Chill
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
Bake to Perfection
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set properly without falling apart.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra burst of flavor, soak the dried cranberries in orange juice for 30 minutes before adding them to the dough. If you prefer a crispier cookie, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes. Always use room temperature eggs for easier mixing and a more uniform dough. To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread will absorb any excess moisture, keeping the cookies chewy for days.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out the white chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Add a cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
- For a citrus twist, add the zest of one orange to the dough.
- Use dried cherries or blueberries instead of cranberries for a different tartness.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with coarse sugar before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are too moist for this recipe and will make the dough too wet. If you only have fresh cranberries, you can dry them out in a low oven before using, but dried cranberries are recommended for the best results.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Summary
These soft baked white chocolate chip cranberry cookies are a delightful treat that balances sweet and tart flavors perfectly. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can customize them to your liking and enjoy them any time of year.