Hey there, holiday enthusiasts!
It’s that wonderful time of year again! Are you in the mood for some festive treats?
I’ve got a recipe that will bring a smile to your face: Christmas cookies with craisins!
These cookies are chewy, fruity, and bursting with holiday cheer.
Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).
Let’s make some merry magic in the kitchen!
| Preparation Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 12-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 2 hours 42 minutes – 2 hours 55 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries – craisins
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
Step 1: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter (about 250 grams) and ¾ cup of sugar.
Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy.
This should take around 3-5 minutes at medium speed.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract, the zest of 1 orange, and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice to the butter and sugar mixture.
Mix until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour
Gradually add 2½ cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture.
Use the hand mixer on the slowest speed to avoid flour dust from scattering.
Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overmix the dough.
Step 4: Shape and Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a long log, aiming to make it as round as possible.
Wrap the log in cling film and roll it gently to ensure it is evenly shaped.
Place the wrapped log in the fridge for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Step 5: Slice and Prepare for Baking
After chilling, remove the log from the fridge and unwrap it.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Slice the log into cookie pieces of your desired thickness.
Dip each cookie slice in sugar on both sides and place them on a baking tray lined with non-stick baking paper.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 minutes.
Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking paper for 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Once cooled, store the cookies in a sealed container, where they can last up to a week.
Enjoy!
