Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

You’ll love these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies because they’re a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers, these cookies are sure to impress. The chewy consistency, rich white chocolate, and tart cranberries create a unique treat that everyone will adore.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
• Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Fold in Mix-ins
• Step 4: Chill the Dough
• Step 5: Prepare to Bake
• Step 6: Shape the Cookies
• Step 7: Bake Your Cookies
• Step 8: Cool Down Time
• How to Serve Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• With a Glass of Milk
• Warm with Ice Cream
• On a Dessert Platter
• With Coffee or Tea
• For Gift Giving
• At a Potluck or Picnic
• How to Perfect Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• Reheating Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make my Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies chewier?
• Can I substitute other types of chocolate?
• How can I customize my Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies?
• What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Chewy: These cookies have a soft-baked texture that makes every bite delightful.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Make Ahead: You can chill the dough for up to four days, making it easy to prepare in advance.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an everyday snack or serve them at special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Helps achieve a creamy mixture quickly, ensuring even blending of ingredients.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing your dough without spills.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking and helps with easy cookie removal after baking.

Ingredients

For these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, you will need the following:

• 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: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment:
1. Beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until combined and creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed, beating again until fully mixed.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
2. Slowly mix this into the wet ingredients on low speed until combined. The cookie dough should be soft and thick.

Step 3: Fold in Mix-ins

Add:
1. The white chocolate chips and dried cranberries into the dough.
2. Beat on low speed until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap:
1. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 3-4 days. This step is crucial to prevent over-spreading during baking.

Step 5: Prepare to Bake

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

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

As your oven preheats:
1. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough each into balls.
2. Place them about three inches apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven:
1. For about 11-12 minutes until lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center.
2. If they haven’t spread much, lightly bang the baking sheets on the counter while they are still warm.

Step 8: Cool Down Time

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for:
1. About five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
2. During this time, optionally press extra white chocolate chips and dried cranberries into each cookie’s top for decoration.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies! Store any extras covered at room temperature for up to one week.

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

• This classic pairing helps balance the sweetness of the cookies and provides a comforting feel.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter along with other sweet treats for an eye-catching display at gatherings or parties.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy snack break.

For Gift Giving

• Package the cookies in decorative bags or boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

At a Potluck or Picnic

• Soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies are perfect for sharing at potlucks, picnics, or any social event. They’ll surely be a hit!

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How to Perfect Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

Getting the perfect soft-baked texture requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling prevents over-spreading and helps maintain that soft, chewy inside.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on them; they should look soft in the center when done.
• Press Toppings In: Pressing extra white chocolate chips and cranberries into warm cookies enhances appearance and flavor.
• Store Properly: Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

Soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or mozzarella for a savory contrast that enhances the cookie’s sweetness.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a healthy side that complements cookie indulgence.

4. Nut Mix
   A selection of nuts provides crunch and protein, making it an excellent snack alongside your sweet treat.

5. Chocolate Fondue
   Set up a fondue station with fruit, marshmallows, and pretzels for dipping; it’s interactive and fun!

6. Spiced Chai Latte
   This warm beverage adds cozy spices that harmonize beautifully with the cookie flavors, especially in cold weather.

7. Homemade Granola Bars
   These chewy bars provide energy while enhancing the overall snacking experience when paired with cookies.

8. Mini Cheesecakes
   Individual cheesecakes can create an elegant dessert table alongside your soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the Chilling Time – Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Always chill for at least 1 hour to achieve that soft-baked texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients – If your butter and egg are cold, the dough won’t mix well. Ensure they are at room temperature for smooth blending.
• Overmixing the Dough – Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a chewy texture.
• Incorrect Measuring of Flour – Scooping flour directly can pack it down, leading to dry cookies. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level off for accuracy.
• Not Using Parchment Paper – Baking directly on a sheet can cause sticking. Use parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal and even baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

• Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes to regain softness.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies.

How do I make my Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies chewier?

To enhance chewiness, try adding an extra egg yolk or increasing the brown sugar slightly, as it retains moisture better than granulated sugar.

Can I substitute other types of chocolate?

Yes! You can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for different flavor profiles.

How can I customize my Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or include other dried fruits like cherries or raisins for added texture and flavor.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If you find the dough too sticky after mixing, chill it longer before scooping. This will help firm it up and make it easier to handle.

Final Thoughts

Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are truly delightful with their chewy texture and perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. They offer versatility—try adding different ingredients or flavors based on your preferences! Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; you might just find your new favorite cookie!