Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

You’ll love these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies because they are irresistibly chewy and packed with flavor. These cookies perfectly blend sweet white chocolate morsels with tart dried cranberries, making them ideal for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. With an extra hint of vanilla, each bite is a delightful experience that will leave you wanting more.

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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: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Add Mix-ins
• Step 4: Prepare to Bake
• Step 5: Form Dough Balls
• Step 6: Bake Cookies
• Step 7: Cool Down
• Step 8: Store Your Cookies
• How to Serve Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• With a Glass of Milk
• At a Holiday Gathering
• As a Dessert Bar
• Gift Packaging
• With Ice Cream
• Snack Time Delight
• 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 cookies softer?
• Can I substitute white chocolate chips?
• What if I don’t have cornstarch?
• How long does cookie dough last in the fridge?
• Can I make these cookies vegan?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Texture: These cookies are soft-baked, offering a chewy center that melts in your mouth.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a unique flavor profile.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in with coffee or tea.
• Make Ahead: Chilling the dough allows for flexibility; prepare it ahead and bake when you’re ready.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment to ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: This ensures even mixing, making it easier to achieve a creamy dough texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls allows you to prepare wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet helps promote even baking and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients for these 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: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl using a stand mixer or handheld mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until creamy. This should take about 2 minutes. Then add the egg and vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients on low speed until everything is combined. The dough should be soft but thick.

Step 3: Add Mix-ins

Fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. Mix on low speed until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 4: Prepare to Bake

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

Step 5: Form Dough Balls

Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough for each cookie, rolling them into balls. Space them about three inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake for 11-12 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges. The centers should still look soft. If they didn’t spread much, gently bang the baking sheets on the counter right after removing them from the oven.

Step 7: Cool Down

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Optionally, press extra white chocolate chips and dried cranberries into the tops during this time for added appeal.

Step 8: Store Your Cookies

Store cookies covered at room temperature for up to one week so you can enjoy them fresh!

How to Serve Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

These soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether at a party, with a cup of coffee, or as a sweet gift, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic combination that balances sweetness and creaminess.

At a Holiday Gathering

• Serve these cookies on a festive platter during holiday parties. Their vibrant colors make them an eye-catching treat.

As a Dessert Bar

• Include these cookies in a dessert bar alongside other sweets like brownies and cheesecake. They add variety to your dessert options.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags to give as gifts. This personal touch is perfect for friends and family.

With Ice Cream

• Top warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The melting ice cream adds delicious creaminess.

Snack Time Delight

• Enjoy these cookies as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee. They provide a delightful pick-me-up!

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How to Perfect Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

To ensure your soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to chill for at least one hour. This helps prevent spreading and maintains that soft texture.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This aids in even mixing and better cookie texture.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove the cookies when they are lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Add Extra Mix-Ins: For more flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or more dried cranberries along with the white chocolate chips.

• Press Toppings: After baking, gently press extra white chocolate chips and cranberries into the warm cookies for added decoration and flavor.

• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to one week.

Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Coffee: A rich cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their flavors.

2. Hot Chocolate: Enjoying these cookies alongside hot chocolate creates a cozy treat perfect for chilly days.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies, providing a healthy contrast.

4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda on a cheese platter for an elegant touch when serving guests.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a light side that complements the cookie’s richness.

6. Nut Mix: A simple nut mix adds crunch and contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies.

7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over warm cookies brings an extra layer of sweetness that is hard to resist.

8. Tea Selection: Offer a variety of teas, such as chamomile or chai, which can create different flavor experiences alongside the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause your cookies to spread too much. Always chill the dough for at least 1 hour to ensure they bake perfectly.
• Overmixing Ingredients: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined, especially after adding flour.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to underbaked or burnt cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Container: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds on medium power for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Use a covered skillet on low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, ensure you do not overbake them. The centers should look slightly underbaked when you remove them from the oven.

Can I substitute white chocolate chips?

Yes! You can use dark chocolate chips or even chopped nuts if you prefer a different flavor or texture in your cookies.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can omit it or use an equal amount of flour. However, cornstarch helps create a softer texture.

How long does cookie dough last in the fridge?

Cookie dough lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can replace butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg to make these cookies vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

These Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a wonderful blend of sweetness from white chocolate and tartness from cranberries, making them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy they are to make!