Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

You’ll love these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies because they are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies deliver a delightful mix of chewy texture and sweet flavor. The combination of rich white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a unique taste that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, with their soft-baked perfection, they’re sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfectly Soft-Baked: These cookies retain their chewy texture, making them fun to eat and hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just a weekend baking project at home.
• Make Ahead Option: The dough can be chilled for several days, allowing for fresh cookies whenever you crave them.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully bake these delicious cookies, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and helps achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Baking sheets
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Ensures even mixing of ingredients for creamy cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before merging.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking sheets, allowing for easy removal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make your own Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies:

• 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

1. In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until combined and creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to combine everything well.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
2. On low speed, gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. The cookie dough will be soft and thick.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips and Cranberries

1. Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. Mix on low speed until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 3-4 days.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 5: Form Cookies

1. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of chilled dough per cookie and roll them into balls.
2. Place each dough ball about 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

1. Bake for about 11-12 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges while still soft in the center.
2. If cookies didn’t spread much, lightly bang the baking sheets on the counter while they are still warm.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

1. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
2. Optionally, press extra white chocolate chips and dried cranberries into the warm tops before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to one week—if they last that long! Enjoy every bite!

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 enjoying a cozy evening at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the sweetness of the white chocolate and tartness of cranberries.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat from the cookie will slightly melt the ice cream, creating a delicious contrast in textures.

As Dessert Bar Treats

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert bar at parties. They can be complemented by other treats like brownies and cupcakes for a diverse selection.

Gift-Wrapped Goodies

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags to give as gifts. They make for a thoughtful present during holidays or special occasions.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The flavors pair well, making for a cozy afternoon snack.

On a Cookie Platter

• Create an impressive cookie platter featuring these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies along with other flavors. This works great for celebrations and gatherings.

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How to Perfect Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

To achieve the perfect Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial. It helps prevent spreading during baking and ensures the cookies maintain their soft-baked texture.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature. This blends better, resulting in creamy dough that bakes evenly.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour and keeps your cookies soft.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove them from the oven when they are just lightly browned around the edges to maintain softness inside.

• Press Toppings Before Cooling: For an appealing presentation, press extra white chocolate chips and cranberries into the tops while still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

These Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their flavor profile. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light yet satisfying side that pairs well with cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with fresh fruit provides an indulgent dipping option alongside cookies.

5. Nut Mix: A blend of salty nuts offers a crunchy texture that balances well with soft-baked treats.

6. Pecan Pie Bars: These rich bars complement the flavors in your cookies, creating an irresistible dessert spread.

7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar where guests can customize their desserts with toppings, including chopped cookies!

8. Hot Cocoa Station: A warm cup of hot cocoa enhances your cookie experience, especially during colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Using cold butter – Cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always use softened butter to achieve that soft-baked texture.
• Skipping the chill time – Not chilling the dough will cause your cookies to spread too much. Chill for at least 1 hour for best results.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a soft, chewy cookie.
• Incorrectly measuring flour – Using too much flour can dry out cookies. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements.
• Not checking oven temperature – An inaccurate oven can lead to underbaked or overbaked cookies. Always preheat and monitor your oven‘s temperature.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep them at room temperature to maintain softness.

Freezing Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid.
• They last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions with answers.

How do I get my cookies soft and chewy?

To ensure your Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are soft and chewy, make sure you chill the dough before baking and do not overbake them.

Can I use other types of chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute white chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor profile in your Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?

Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 1 week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add an excellent crunch and flavor contrast. Just mix them into the dough along with the cranberries.

Final Thoughts

These Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors perfectly. Their chewy texture makes them irresistible, while their versatility allows you to customize them based on personal preferences—add nuts or even different types of chocolate! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these comforting cookies any time!