Name: Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Frozen Cranberries (Can substitute with fresh, if softened); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest; 1/2 cup Orange Juice (Essential for dough consistency); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Reduce if using homemade cranberry sauce); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Aluminum-Free); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Craisins (Dried Cranberries) (Can swap with other dried fruits or nuts); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (For a creamy contrast); 1/2 cup Chopped Almonds (For a nutty crunch); 1/4 cup Sparkling Sugar (For rolling dough)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I watched the last leaves of autumn swirl down from the trees, I felt that unmistakable nudge to bake something cozy and festive. Enter the Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies! These delightful holiday cookies not only bring a charming pop of plum color to your dessert table but also offer a chewy, sweet burst of cranberry-orange flavor with every bite. What I love most about this eggless recipe is how it invites creativity—you can enhance your cookies with rich white chocolate or crunchy nuts to make them uniquely yours. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of seasonal flavors and fond memories. So, what variations will you try to make them your own?

Why Are Sparkling Sugarplum Cookies Irresistible?

Chewy Delight: Imagine taking a bite and experiencing a soft, chewy texture that’s simply addictive.

Vibrant Flavor: The bright notes of cranberry and orange come together, creating a festive explosion of taste.

Customizable: From adding decadent white chocolate to experimenting with nuts, your options are limitless!

Visual Appeal: These cookies are not just delicious; their stunning plum hue and sugary sparkle make any dessert table pop!

Time-Saving: With a quick prep and baking time, you’ll be enjoying your festive treats in no time. Pair these with a warm cup of coffee or Enchanted Unicorn Lemonade for a magical holiday experience!

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Frozen Cranberries – The star of the show, packed with tartness; fresh cranberries can be used if softened first.
• Orange Zest – Adds delightful citrusy brightness that enhances the cookie’s flavor profile.
• Orange Juice – Provides moisture and balances the tartness of the cranberries; essential for the perfect dough consistency.
• Unsalted Butter – Riches up the cookies, creating a soft, chewy texture everyone loves.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mix; you can reduce the amount if using homemade cranberry sauce for a lighter treat.
• All-Purpose Flour – This is the backbone for building structure and texture in your cookies.
• Baking Powder (Aluminum-Free) – Ensures the cookies rise beautifully, resulting in a fluffy finish.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Craisins (Dried Cranberries) – A chewy sweetness boost; swap with your favorite dried fruits or nuts for a twist.

Optional Additions
• White Chocolate Chips – Add a creamy, decadent contrast to the chewy texture.
• Chopped Almonds – Bring a nutty crunch for those who love a bit of bite in their cookies.
• Sparkling Sugar – Roll the dough in this for an extra magical touch that truly shines during festive events.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Step 1: Thaw and Blend Cranberries
Begin by defrosting your frozen cranberries until they’re soft and juicy, which should take about 15 minutes at room temperature. Once thawed, blend the cranberries with orange juice and zest in a food processor until smooth, creating a vibrant, flavorful mixture that will infuse your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies with tartness and brightness.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, combine room-temperature unsalted butter with granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the chewy texture that defines your cookies. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even blend.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the blended cranberry mixture to the fluffy butter and sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until fully incorporated, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The dough will take on a lovely plum hue and a sweet aroma, setting the foundation for your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies to shine both in taste and appearance.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in your mixer, mixing on low speed until just combined—aim for about 30 seconds. Over-mixing can make your cookies tough, so stop as soon as no flour streaks remain visible, ensuring a delicate texture.

Step 5: Fold in Craisins
Gently fold in the Craisins using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will add a delightful chewiness to your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies! Make sure not to overwork the dough; a few gentle folds should do the trick to maintain the soft texture.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential as it helps to solidify the fat, resulting in thicker cookies that hold their shape while baking. During this time, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking.

Step 7: Prepare Baking Sheets
While the dough chills, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats. This not only prevents sticking but also promotes even baking for your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies. Make sure to have your cookie scoop ready to portion out the dough easily once chilled.

Step 8: Shape and Roll Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop to scoop out portions of dough. Roll each ball in granulated or sparkling sugar for an enchanting finish, then place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets. Aim for about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges of the Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies are lightly golden. Keep a close eye, as you want the centers to remain soft and chewy. Once done, remove them promptly from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes.

Step 10: Cool on Racks
Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely. This step is vital for allowing your cookies to firm up while maintaining that delightful chewy center. After they cool, you’ll be left with colorful, sweet cookies that are perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the holiday season!

Make Ahead Options

These Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. For longer storage, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen cookie dough directly on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This method will ensure your cookies maintain their delightful chewy texture and vibrant flavor, bringing the festive spirit right when you need it!

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies to make them uniquely yours!

White Chocolate: Add creamy white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast to the tart cranberries.
A happy marriage of flavors awaits! The smoothness of the chocolate elevates the experience with every bite.
Nutty Crunch: Crushed almonds or chopped pistachios introduce a satisfying crunch.
This not only enhances texture but adds a lovely nutty flavor, making each cookie a delightful surprise.
Dried Fruit Swap: Replace Craisins with dried cherries or even apricots for a fruity twist.
These options can infuse a whole new fruity layer that complements the cranberry well.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for warmth.
This not only elevates flavor but also evokes the cozy aroma of the holidays, making your kitchen feel festive!
Sugary Sparkle: Roll the cookie dough in a blend of sparkling sugar and cinnamon.
It adds a gorgeous visual pop and an extra layer of flavor that’s sure to impress during festive gatherings.
Chocolate Dip: Dip cooled cookies in melted dark or white chocolate for a rich finish.
This decadent touch makes them feel extra special and creates a luxurious treat for any occasion.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate lemon zest along with the orange zest for a citrus burst.
This brightens the cookie’s flavor, creating a refreshing note that balances beautifully with the cranberries.

For more enchanting flavors, consider serving these cookies alongside a glass of Enchanted Unicorn Lemonade for a truly magical holiday experience! And if you’re looking for something sweet to satisfy your chocolate cravings, why not try out my Cosmic Brownie Cookies? They’ll bring a delightful contrast to your festive cookie platter!

What to Serve with Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies?

These enchanting cookies can transform any gathering into a festive celebration, making them a delightful centerpiece on your dessert table.

Warm Spiced Apple Cider: The sweetness and warmth of spiced apple cider complements the cookies’ fruity flavors beautifully, creating a cozy drink pairing.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a rich creaminess that contrasts perfectly with the chewy texture of the cookies.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the cookies and refreshes the palate.
Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The luxurious taste of dark chocolate and fresh strawberries adds a touch of sophistication and indulgence to your dessert spread.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This festive drink brings a nostalgic holiday touch, evoking memories of cheerful gatherings and treats.
Cheese Platter with Brie: The creaminess of brie enhances the cookie flavors, providing a savory contrast that elevates the snack experience.
Nutty Biscotti: Crisp and crunchy, biscotti offer a delightful texture contrast while echoing the cookie’s festive spirit. Enjoy them dipped in warm coffee!
Almond Milk Latte: Light and slightly sweet, an almond milk latte can enhance the cookies’ flavors while providing a smooth drinking experience.

How to Store and Freeze Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can be refrigerated, but note they might become a tad firmer; keep them in an airtight container for up to 7 days.

Freezer: To freeze Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months—thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies

Cranberry Preparation: Ensure the cranberries are fully thawed and blended; this will achieve the desired color and moisture for your cookies.

Uniform Size: Use a smaller cookie scoop to maintain cookie size; this helps avoid uneven baking and ensures all cookies are perfectly chewy.

Juice Adjustment: Only add orange juice if your cranberry puree is too thick; this keeps your cookies vibrant without excess moisture.

Cooling Down: Be sure to cool cookies on racks. This step allows them to firm up while retaining their chewy texture, making your Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies even more delightful!

Baking Watch: Keep a close eye on the baking time; the edges should be golden while the centers look set but soft to maintain that perfect texture.

Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use for Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work wonderfully for this recipe, as they provide the perfect tartness. If you prefer fresh cranberries, be sure to soften them first at room temperature to help release their juices. This will enhance the cookie’s flavor and moisture.

How should I store Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies?
To maintain that irresistible chewy texture, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re keeping them in the fridge, they can last for about 7 days, but they may become a bit firmer. If you plan to keep them longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies! Once they are completely cooled, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

What if my cookie dough is too wet or too dry?
If your dough feels too wet, it might be that you’ve added too much orange juice. You can adjust by adding a bit more flour until the texture is just right. Conversely, if the dough seems too dry, consider adding an additional teaspoon of orange juice or a splash of water to loosen it up. This will help achieve the perfect chewy consistency.

Are Sparkling Sugarplum Cranberry Cookies suitable for special diets?
These cookies are eggless, making them a good option for those avoiding eggs. However, if you have allergies, be careful with substitutions—Craisins can be swapped with other dried fruits or nuts, just keep an eye on any potential allergens. If you’re making them for pets, remember that chocolate and certain nuts can be harmful; always check before sharing!