Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

These Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion! With their tender, chewy texture and sweet hint of cranberries, these cookies will be a hit at holiday gatherings or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea. This classic recipe brings together the warmth of home baking and the festive spirit, making it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes to prep, so you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Deliciously Soft: The secret to their appeal lies in their soft texture and slight crunch on the outside—every bite is heavenly!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just a simple family dessert any day of the week.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping make these cookies, from mixing ingredients to rolling them in sugar.
• Great for Gifting: Pack them into festive tins or boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will appreciate.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Gathering everything beforehand will streamline your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep ingredients organized and allows for easy mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success; precision affects texture and flavor.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 10 oz. Craisins or other sweetened (dried cranberry)
• 1 1/2 cup sugar (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 cup Crisco
• 2 eggs
• 3 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla

How to Make Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get your oven ready so that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Craisins

In a saucepan, combine the Craisins with 1 cup of water. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce it to a simmer and cook until all the liquid has been absorbed. Afterward, remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour and baking soda. This step ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cream Together Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the sugar, Crisco, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and well combined. This is where you create that rich base for your cookies.

Step 5: Mix in Craisins & Flour Mixture

Gradually add the cooled Craisins and flour mixture alternately into the wet mixture. Stir well after each addition until fully combined.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Shape the dough into small balls about 1 ½ inches in size. Roll each ball in sugar until they are thinly coated. This adds an extra layer of sweetness!

Step 7: Bake

Place the rolled cookies on your prepared baking sheets. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes or until the edges are slightly browned.

Enjoy your freshly baked Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies! They make an excellent addition to any dessert table or as a sweet snack throughout the day.

How to Serve Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy evening at home, these cookies can elevate any occasion.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee – The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Tea – A warm cup of herbal tea enhances the soft texture and fruity flavor.
• Hot Chocolate – Indulge in a sweet chocolate drink alongside these fruity cookies for an extra treat.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Assorted Cookies – Combine Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies with other cookie varieties for a colorful display.
• Fruits and Nuts – Add fresh fruits or nuts to balance the sweetness and provide texture.

Gift Them

• Holiday Baskets – Package these cookies in decorative boxes or baskets as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Cookie Jars – Fill a jar with cookies tied with a ribbon for an inviting homemade gift.

How to Perfect Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

To achieve the perfect batch of Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Craisins – Ensure your dried cranberries are fresh for optimal flavor and moisture.
• Cream Butter and Sugar Well – Take your time to mix until light and fluffy; this helps create a soft texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
• Chill the Dough – If time permits, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavors and prevent spreading.
• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

These cookies pair well with several side dishes that can complement their sweet and tangy flavor. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast.
3. Nut Mix – A blend of walnuts, almonds, and pecans provides crunch alongside soft textures.
4. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful dessert option.
5. Pudding Cups – Serve vanilla or chocolate pudding as a creamy side dish pairing.
6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Set up toppings alongside ice cream to create fun sundaes that go well with cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies is easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Ensure you chill it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can make your cookies tough. Combine until just mixed for softer results.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Using too much flour or sugar can affect texture and flavor. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can result in unevenly baked cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurate.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking too long can dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them and take them out when edges are just slightly browned.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat individually in 10-15 second intervals until just warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes to soften.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies.

How do I make my Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies even softer?

Adding a bit more Crisco or using a combination of butter and Crisco can enhance softness. Make sure not to overbake as well!

Can I substitute other fruits for cranberries?

Absolutely! You can use dried cherries or blueberries as alternatives, which will provide different flavors while keeping the cookie soft.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them!

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for slightly browned edges and a set center. They will continue cooking slightly after removing from the oven.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or other dried fruits. Whether it’s for holiday gatherings or everyday treats, this simple recipe is sure to please everyone!