Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie

Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. With their sweet, tangy flavor and soft, chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. They’re simple to make, customizable, and ideal for busy days when you need a quick, delicious dessert.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 150
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 90mg

Why Make Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie

Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookies are not only delicious but also provide a burst of flavor that can brighten anyone’s day. They combine the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of frosting, making them a delightful treat. Plus, they can easily be customized with nuts or other add-ins to suit your preference.

How to Make Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie Step by Step

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest until combined.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
Fold in dried cranberries and chopped pecans if using.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and cool on wire racks.
For the frosting, combine powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth and spreadable.
Once cookies are completely cooled, spread frosting evenly on top. Let the frosting set before serving.

How to Serve Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie

These cookies are the perfect afternoon snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve them as a dessert at holiday gatherings or potlucks. Pair with a light salad or cheese platter for a delightful treat.

How to Store Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie

To store these cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Expert Tips for Cooking Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour; this keeps your cookies tender.
Experiment with different dried fruits or nuts for a unique twist.
Adjust the amount of orange juice in the frosting for your desired consistency.
Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Delicious Variations of Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie

Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spicy flavor.
Use lemon zest instead of orange for a citrus twist.
Substitute dried cherries or raisins for cranberries for a different taste profile.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookie

What can I substitute for dried cranberries?
You can use raisins, dried cherries, or even chopped apricots as an alternative.

Can I use a different type of nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully in this recipe.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze well. Just make sure they are completely cooled before you freeze them.

Conclusion

Give Frosted Cranberry Drop Cookies a try for your next bake! Their sweet and tangy flavor, combined with a customizable frosting, make them a hit for any crowd. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.