Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
You’ll love these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies because they are a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy family nights, these cookies feature a soft texture and a rich taste from the white chocolate and cranberries. With a hint of extra vanilla, they’re sure to impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Chewy: These cookies have a soft-baked texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for holidays, parties, or just a sweet snack at home.
- Flavorful Combo: The mix of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be chilled for up to 3-4 days, making it easy to prepare in advance.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your cookies, gather the essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Baking sheets
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for separating wet and dry ingredients effectively.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking of your cookies.
Ingredients
To create these delicious Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, you’ll need:
- 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar (I use dark)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (cornflour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (135g) white chocolate chips, plus a few extra for garnish
- 1 cup (140g) dried cranberries, plus a few extra for garnish
How to Make Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Step 1: Mix Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until combined and creamy, about 2 minutes. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients on low speed until just combined. The dough will be soft but thick.
Step 3: Add Chips and Cranberries
Fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour, but it can stay there for up to three to four days. Chilling helps prevent over-spreading during baking.
Step 4: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly without sticking.
Step 5: Shape Dough Balls
Once chilled, scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie into balls. If the dough is crumbly, work it with your hands until it holds together better. Space them out about three inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Bake for about 11-12 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges while still soft in the center. If they don’t spread much during baking, gently bang the baking sheets on the counter once they come out of the oven.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Press extra white chocolate chips and dried cranberries into each warm cookie if desired.
Step 8: Storage Tips
Store cookies covered at room temperature for up to one week so you can enjoy these delightful treats whenever you like!
How to Serve Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair your cookies with a chilled glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the sweetness of the white chocolate and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter with other treats like brownies and fruit tarts. This variety will impress your guests during gatherings or parties.
Topped with Ice Cream
- Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The warm cookie contrasts beautifully with the cold ice cream, creating a delicious dessert experience.
In Cookie Sandwiches
- Make cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of frosting or whipped cream between two cookies. This fun twist adds an extra creamy texture and flavor.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite hot beverage, like coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink complements the soft, chewy texture of the cookies perfectly.
How to Perfect Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
To achieve the perfect soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies, follow these helpful tips.
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Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least one hour is crucial. It prevents over-spreading and helps maintain that desired soft texture.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them blend better, leading to a smoother dough.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to maintain the softness of your cookies. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
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Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking slightly will yield softer centers while still giving you lightly browned edges.
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Add Extra Toppings: For an appealing look, press additional white chocolate chips and cranberries into the tops before cooling.
Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Pairing side dishes with soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies can create a delightful meal or snack experience. Here are some great options to consider.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies with its natural tartness.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the flavors in your cookies.
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Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to provide savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse can elevate dessert time, offering a luxurious pairing with your cookies.
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Nut Mix: Serve assorted nuts as a crunchy side dish; their saltiness contrasts nicely with sweet cookies.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa not only warms you up but also pairs wonderfully with soft-baked treats like these cookies.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cookies for an indulgent touch that enhances their flavor profile.
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Coffee Cake: Enjoy slices of coffee cake as a brunch option alongside your cookies for an inviting morning treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the chill time: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill your dough for at least one hour.
- Incorrect measuring of flour: Using too much flour results in dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect dough consistency. Let them sit out before starting.
- Overbaking the cookies: Baking too long makes cookies hard instead of soft-baked. Watch closely, and pull them when edges are lightly browned.
- Forgetting to add extra mix-ins: Skipping extra white chocolate chips or cranberries misses flavor balance. Don’t forget to garnish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for about 1 minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies that may help you.
How can I make my Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies chewier?
To enhance chewiness, ensure you use brown sugar and let the dough rest properly after mixing.
Can I use frozen cranberries in my cookies?
Frozen cranberries can be used, but they may release more moisture. Adjust baking time accordingly.
What’s the best way to ensure my Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies stay soft?
Chilling the dough helps maintain softness while baking. Keep an eye on the baking time as well.
Can I customize my Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, coconut flakes, or even switch out white chocolate for dark chocolate.
Final Thoughts
These soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them with friends, these cookies bring comfort and joy. Give this recipe a try!
Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, where sweet meets tart in every bite. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family nights. With their irresistibly chewy texture and rich flavors, featuring creamy white chocolate and tangy cranberries, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. This easy-to-follow recipe allows bakers of all skill levels to create these mouthwatering treats effortlessly. Chilling the dough enhances the flavor and texture, ensuring that each cookie bakes up perfectly soft with a warm, inviting center. Serve them fresh out of the oven for a truly comforting experience.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (135g) white chocolate chips, plus a few extra for garnish
- 1 cup (140g) dried cranberries, plus a few extra for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a mixer.
- Beat in an egg and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt; gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries.
- Chill the dough for at least one hour before baking.
- Scoop dough onto prepared sheets about three inches apart and bake for 11-12 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 142
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 77mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
