Cranberry Pecan Cookies are a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors, with a hint of tartness from dried cranberries. These cookies are a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with a glass of milk. If you’re a fan of the classic flavors of cranberries and pecans, you’ll fall in love with this easy and delicious cookie recipe.
Who Will Love These Cookies? Cranberry Pecan Cookies are designed for those who appreciate the sweet and tart taste of dried cranberries, the nutty crunch of pecans, and the comfort of a homemade cookie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these cookies are simple to make and universally loved. They make a fantastic gift, a delightful addition to dessert tables, or a comforting snack for yourself.
Why These Cookies Are Great
- Festive Flavor: The combination of cranberries and pecans makes these cookies ideal for holiday celebrations, but they’re enjoyable year-round.
- Texture Variety: These cookies offer a delightful contrast of chewy cranberries and crunchy pecans in every bite.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special techniques, making it accessible to bakers of all levels.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with variations, such as using white chocolate chips or adding a hint of orange zest for extra flavor.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you have the necessary kitchen equipment to create these delicious Cranberry Pecan Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need both a large mixing bowl for the cookie dough and a smaller one for mixing the dry ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A handheld or stand mixer is essential for beating the butter and sugar.
- Baking Sheets: For placing the cookie dough for baking.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheets for easy removal and cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop: To measure out and portion the cookie dough evenly.
Now that you’re equipped with the necessary kitchen tools, let’s get started with the recipe!
The Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Add Cranberries and Pecans: Gently fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pecans into the cookie dough.
- Portion the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed.
Recipe Notes
- Variations: Get creative with your Cranberry Pecan Cookies by using white chocolate chips instead of pecans or adding a touch of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for several days.
- Gift Idea: These cookies make a wonderful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative box or tin for a heartfelt present.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried? Fresh cranberries are much more tart and juicy than dried cranberries, so they are not a direct substitute in this recipe. Stick with dried cranberries for the best results.
- How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much? Chilling the cookie dough in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading. This step allows the butter to solidify, resulting in thicker cookies.
- Can I use salted butter? Using unsalted butter is recommended to control the salt content in the recipe. If you choose to use salted butter, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe.
- Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer the dough portions to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Savor the Sweet and Nutty Delight! Now that you have the recipe for these delightful Cranberry Pecan Cookies, it’s time to savor the sweet and nutty flavors with a hint of tartness. Whether you’re enjoying them during the holiday season or as a comforting treat any time of the year, these cookies are sure to bring joy. If you loved this recipe, consider subscribing to our blog for more mouthwatering dessert ideas and baking tips. And don’t forget to share this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cookie recipe with friends and family who appreciate the blend of sweet, nutty, and tart in every bite. Happy baking!