Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

These Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday treats. Their tender texture and delightful blend of sweetness make them a favorite among cookie lovers. With a simple recipe passed down through generations, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served alongside hot cocoa or at a festive gathering, they will quickly become a go-to dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Soft: These cookies have a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious batch in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 48 cookies, they are great for parties or as gifts.
• Versatile Flavor: The sweetened cranberries add a unique twist that sets these cookies apart from traditional sugar cookies.
• Great for Any Season: Ideal for holiday festivities or any day you crave something sweet.

Tools and Preparation

To make these soft cranberry sugar cookies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to perfect cookie consistency.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet helps ensure even baking and prevents warping.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 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). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Craisins

Combine Craisins and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer until all the liquid has absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine flour and baking soda. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine sugar, Crisco, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Add the cooled Craisins into the wet mixture. Then gradually mix in the flour mixture alternately with the Craisins until fully combined.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Shape the dough into small balls (about 1 1/2 inches big). Roll each ball in sugar until lightly coated.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly browned.

Enjoy your fresh batch of soft cranberry sugar cookies!

How to Serve Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

With a Glass of Milk

• Dairy or plant-based milk pairs perfectly with these cookies, enhancing their sweetness and providing a creamy contrast.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Add a touch of melted chocolate on top of each cookie for an extra layer of indulgence. This creates a beautiful presentation and adds flavor richness.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Serve these cookies alongside fresh whipped cream for a luxurious addition. The lightness of the cream balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

Fruit Compote

• A warm fruit compote made from berries or apples can contrast nicely with the soft texture of the cookies, adding freshness and acidity.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose vanilla or cranberry-flavored ice cream for a festive twist.

Holiday Platter

• Arrange your Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies on a decorative platter alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread or shortbread for a festive display.

How to Perfect Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

Perfecting your Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies is all about attention to detail. Use these tips to achieve cookie perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your Crisco and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and better texture in the finished cookies.
• Do Not Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.
• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and ensures they stay soft in the center.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are slightly browned but the centers still look soft; they will continue to set as they cool.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or white chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overwhelm the cookie base.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

While these cookies shine on their own, pairing them with certain side dishes can enhance your dessert table. Here are some great options you might consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making it perfect for balancing flavors.
2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can complement the tartness of cranberries while offering a savory element that enhances your dessert experience.
3. Hot Cocoa
   A warm mug of hot cocoa creates a cozy pairing, especially during colder months, making it ideal for gatherings or holiday celebrations.
4. Spiced Chai Tea
   The warmth and spices in chai tea pair wonderfully with these cookies, adding depth and comfort to your dessert experience.
5. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layering yogurt with granola and fruits can provide a textural contrast alongside your Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies for a delightful treat.
6. Homemade Applesauce
   Sweetened applesauce offers moisture and fruitiness that harmonizes well with cranberry flavors while keeping things light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the Craisins can lead to dry cookies. Make sure to soak them in water until all the liquid is absorbed for extra moisture.
• Incorrect Measuring of Flour: Using too much flour can make your cookies tough. Always measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Failing to chill the dough can result in spread-out cookies. Consider chilling for at least 30 minutes before baking for a better texture.
• Overbaking: Leaving cookies in the oven too long can make them hard. Watch for slight browning on the edges and remove them promptly.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients like Crisco or eggs can affect texture. Allow these to come to room temperature for a smoother mixture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will last for up to three months.

Reheating Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid over it. Warm cookies for 1-2 minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies soft?

The combination of soaked Craisins and proper mixing techniques contributes to their softness.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of Craisins?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but consider adding extra sugar since they are more tart.

How do I customize Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor!

How long will these cookies last?

When stored properly, Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies can last up to one week in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Their delightful flavor and soft texture make them perfect gifts for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Cranberry Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them during holidays or as an everyday treat, you can easily customize them. Try out different mix-ins or toppings to make this recipe your own!

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