Ingredients

Cookie Dough

Butter - 180 grams (1 cup)
Sugar - 200 grams (1 cup)
Vanilla sugar - 8-10 grams (2 teaspoons)
Nutmeg - 2 grams (0.5 teaspoon)
Cinnamon - 2 grams (0.5 teaspoon)
Flour - 250 grams (1.5 cups)
Baking soda - 5 grams (1 teaspoon)
1 egg

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the *cold butter*, sugar, vanilla sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix this until you achieve a smooth paste. A stand mixer can make this process much easier.

Next, gradually add the flour and baking soda to this mix. When it becomes crumbly, incorporate the *egg*. Stir in your choice of *candied orange*, zest, or cranberries.

Step 2

Shape and Chill

Roll the dough into a log with a diameter of 6-7 cm (about 2.5 inches). Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least *2 hours*.

Step 3

Slice and Bake

After chilling, slice the dough into discs about 1 cm (0.5 inch) thick. Arrange them on a baking sheet.

Bake in a preheated oven at *180°C* (350°F) for approximately **20 minutes**, or until golden.

Servings

There's something magical about serving these cookies with a warm drink on a chilly winter afternoon. **Pair them with a steaming mug of hot chocolate** adorned with marshmallows, and your guests will be in winter wonderland heaven! ☕❄️

For an elevated experience, why not serve these cookies with a **scoop of vanilla ice cream**? The contrast between the cold ice cream and the warm, spiced cookie is a real treat for the taste buds!

If you're feeling a bit adventurous, you can create a **simple cookie sandwich** by spreading a layer of cream cheese frosting between two cookies. This twist will make them stand out on any holiday dessert table. 🍪🎉

Equipment

Variations

Looking for a gluten-free option? Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a **gluten-free flour blend**. There are many great ones available that won't compromise the texture of your cookies.

For a vegan version, replace the **butter with coconut oil** and the **egg with a flaxseed egg** (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens). This plant-based twist still delivers all the warm, cozy flavors you'd expect from a classic Christmas cookie! 🌱😋

Faq

  • Why do my cookies spread too much?

    Make sure the dough is properly chilled before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape in the oven.

  • What can I use if I don't have a planetary mixer?

    A hand mixer or even a whisk with some elbow grease will work as alternatives to achieve the desired consistency.

  • Can I prepare the dough in advance?

    Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month.

  • How can I make my cookies softer?

    Consider slightly reducing the baking time or adding a tablespoon of milk to the dough for a softer texture.

  • Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

    Fresh cranberries contain more moisture and might alter the dough texture. If you choose to use them, I suggest reducing their quantity slightly.

  • How do I enhance the citrus flavor?

    Adding a teaspoon of orange extract or zesting an additional orange can intensify the citrus notes of your cookies.

Nutrition facts

Delicious Christmas Cookies with Orange and Cranberry
Recipe Yield:20-25 cookies
Calories:Per cookie
Calories (Min - Max):110 - 130
Total Fat:7g
Saturated Fat:4g
Protein:1g
Total Carbohydrate:12g
Total Sugars:7g