Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
You’ll love these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies because they’re a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies are soft-baked, wonderfully chewy, and bursting with flavor from sweet white chocolate morsels and tart dried cranberries. Ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or as gifts, they stand out due to their extra hint of vanilla and unique texture. Set aside an hour to chill the dough in the refrigerator before baking for the best results!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The soft-baked nature of these cookies ensures a delightful chewiness that is hard to resist.
- Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet white chocolate complements the tartness of dried cranberries beautifully.
- Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple snack, these cookies fit right in.
- Easy preparation: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up a batch effortlessly.
- Make-ahead option: The dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it convenient for busy schedules.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the baking 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
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer: These help achieve a creamy mixture quickly, ensuring proper incorporation of ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls allows for easy organization when combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: These prevent sticking and promote even baking for perfect cookies every time.
Ingredients
For 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: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl using your stand mixer or handheld mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until creamy. This should take about two minutes. Then add in the egg and vanilla extract, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into your wet ingredients on low speed until just combined. Your cookie dough will be soft but thick at this point.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips and Cranberries
Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour (and up to four days).
Step 4: Preheat Oven and Bake Cookies
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of cookie dough into balls and arrange them three inches apart on the prepared sheets.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Soft
Bake your cookies for about 11–12 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges while still looking soft in the center. If they haven’t spread much, gently bang the baking sheets against your counter while they’re warm.
Step 6: Cool Down and Enjoy!
Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Press some extra white chocolate chips and dried cranberries onto the tops if desired for an appealing finish. Enjoy your fresh batch of Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies!
How to Serve Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
These soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, serving suggestions can enhance their deliciousness.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies with the creaminess of milk.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies alongside other treats like brownies or mini cupcakes for a delightful dessert spread.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert experience.
For Breakfast Treats
- Enjoy these cookies as a sweet start to your day along with coffee or tea.
Gift-Wrapped for Special Occasions
- Present these cookies in a decorative box or bag as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
At Holiday Gatherings
- These festive cookies make an excellent addition to holiday cookie trays, adding color and flavor.
How to Perfect Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
To achieve the best results with your soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies, follow these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least an hour helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your butter and egg to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to dryness.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them when they look slightly underdone will keep them soft.
- Add Extra Mix-Ins: For added flavor, consider mixing in nuts or coconut flakes along with the cranberries and chocolate chips.
- Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to a week.
Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options.
-
Fruit Salad
A light and refreshing side that complements the sweetness of the cookies with seasonal fruits. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses adds savory notes, balancing the sweet flavors of the cookies beautifully. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with fruits and granola for a wholesome side that pairs perfectly with dessert. -
Chocolate Fondue
Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an extra indulgent treat! -
Coffee or Tea
A warm beverage enhances the comforting feel of enjoying freshly baked cookies. -
Nut Mixes
A blend of roasted nuts offers crunch and adds protein, making it a satisfying side option. -
Mini Muffins
Serve assorted mini muffins alongside for variety in flavor and texture during snack time. -
Ice Cream Sundaes
Create fun ice cream sundaes topped with cookie crumbles for a playful twist on dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing your dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing over-spreading. Always chill for at least 1 hour before baking.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Using too much flour or sugar can ruin the texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring tools for accuracy.
- Baking at Too High a Temperature: Baking at a higher temperature can cause the cookies to brown too quickly. Stick to 350°F (177°C) for best results.
- Neglecting Garnishes: Adding extra white chocolate chips and cranberries on top gives your cookies a beautiful finish. Don’t skip this step for visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- If you need longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
- Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- For best results, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Reheating Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies that might help you out.
Can I use other types of chocolate?
You can absolutely substitute white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Look for lightly browned edges while keeping the centers soft. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.
Can I add nuts to these cookies?
Yes! Nuts like walnuts or pecans add great texture and flavor. Just make sure they are chopped finely before mixing into the dough.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels overly sticky, chill it longer in the refrigerator or add a bit more flour until it reaches a workable consistency.
Final Thoughts
Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Their chewy texture, combined with the sweetness of white chocolate and tartness of cranberries, makes them delightful. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts, using different types of chocolate, or even adjusting the sweetness level to suit your taste!
Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, a perfect treat for any occasion. These cookies are soft and chewy, filled with sweet white chocolate morsels and tangy dried cranberries. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with a hint of vanilla makes them irresistible. Ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or as thoughtful gifts, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. The best part? They are easy to make, requiring just a little chill time for the dough to enhance their deliciousness. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or pair them with your favorite beverage!
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
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Mix in egg and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine with wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into balls and place on prepared sheets. Bake for 11–12 minutes until edges are lightly browned but centers remain soft.
- Cool on baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
