Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

You’ll love these Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies because they are the perfect blend of chewy and soft, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a delightful snack for your family, or want to impress friends with a homemade gift, these cookies shine. Their unique combination of sweet white chocolate morsels and tart cranberries makes each bite a delicious experience you won’t forget.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible texture: These cookies are soft-baked and wonderfully chewy, making them a delight to eat.
• Flavor explosion: The mix of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a balanced flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these treats with ease.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in with a glass of milk.
• Make ahead: The dough can be chilled for up to several days, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies come out perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixer (handheld or stand)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixer: A good mixer saves time and ensures even mixing of ingredients for consistent cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls: Using multiple bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients separate during preparation.
• Baking sheets: Proper baking sheets help achieve an evenly baked cookie without sticking.
• Wire rack: Cooling on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation around the cookies.

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make these delicious 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 Cookie Dough

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

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. cornstarch,
3. baking soda,
4. salt.

On low speed, gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until combined. The dough should be soft and thick.

Step 3: Add Mix-ins

Add the following to your cookie dough:
1. White chocolate chips
2. Dried cranberries

Beat on low speed until just combined. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour or up to four days.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Once ready to bake:
1. Remove cookie dough from the refrigerator.
2. If chilled longer than three hours, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Using about 1.5 tablespoons of dough each:
1. Scoop and roll into balls.
2. Place them three inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
3. Bake for 11-12 minutes until edges are lightly browned but centers remain soft.

Step 6: Cool Your Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for five minutes before pressing extra chocolate chips and cranberries into each warm cookie top if desired. After five minutes, transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Your delicious Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are now ready! Enjoy them fresh or store them covered at room temperature for up to one week!

How to Serve Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

These soft-baked white chocolate cranberry cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on your own, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination. The creamy milk complements the sweetness of the white chocolate and tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruits, nuts, and other baked goods. This makes for an inviting dessert spread that’s perfect for parties.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The melting ice cream adds delicious creaminess that elevates the cookie experience.

In a Gift Box

• Pack these cookies in a decorative gift box tied with a ribbon. They make great homemade gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea. The flavors meld wonderfully, making it a cozy snack option.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• For an extra indulgent treat, top the cookies with whipped cream and garnish with additional dried cranberries. This adds a lovely presentation and taste contrast.

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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, follow these tips:

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading. Aim for at least one hour in the refrigerator before baking.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry results.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; they should be lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise and texture. Expired ingredients can affect the final product.
• Adjust Oven Racks: Bake in the center of the oven for even heat distribution. If you have multiple trays, rotate them halfway through baking.
• Store Properly: To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Best Side Dishes for Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

While these cookies are delightful on their own, they also pair well with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement their flavor:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds vibrant color to your plate.
2. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like brie or gouda on a cheese board, offering savory notes that complement sweet treats.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side dish that provides textures and flavors contrasting those of the cookies.
4. Nut Mix: Serve a bowl of mixed nuts seasoned with herbs or spices as a crunchy side that contrasts nicely with soft-baked textures.
5. Chocolate Fondue: A small pot of melted chocolate invites dipping pieces of cookie into it, enhancing indulgence during gatherings.
6. Coffee Cake: Pairing these cookies with slices of coffee cake creates an excellent brunch option or afternoon snack that pleases many palates.
7. Pecan Pie Bars: These rich bars offer additional sweetness but with nutty undertones, creating a delightful dessert experience alongside your cookies.
8. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies as an optional side treat, adding extra decadence to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes that can affect your Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies.

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the cookie dough is crucial. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring a soft and chewy texture.
• Incorrect measurements: Using a kitchen scale for ingredients like flour and sugar can help avoid inconsistencies. Too much or too little can change the cookie’s texture.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should look soft in the center when you take them out. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This allows for better mixing and results in a softer cookie.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week when kept at room temperature.

Freezing Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

• You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months.
• Place them 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 5-8 minutes for the best texture.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm; this makes them soft again.
• Stovetop: For a quick warm-up, use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies different?

These cookies are unique due to their chewy texture and delightful combination of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries, making them irresistible.

Can I use different chocolate chips?

Yes! You can substitute white chocolate chips with dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Your Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies should be lightly browned around the edges but soft in the center when they’re ready to come out of the oven.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can chill or freeze the dough ahead of time, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.

What other add-ins can I include?

Feel free to customize by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even coconut flakes for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Soft-Baked White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different types of chocolate or nuts. Enjoy their delightful chewiness and rich flavors that will surely please everyone!