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Guaranteed 10 Amazing Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies

Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies

These Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies deliver classic holiday cheer with a bright citrus burst and tart cranberry center. They are perfect for your next cookie exchange.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 1/4 cup orange marmalade or preserves

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until just combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
  5. Stir in the chopped dried cranberries and orange zest by hand.
  6. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
  7. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie ball.
  8. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of orange marmalade into each indentation.
  9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For the best texture, make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted.
  • You can substitute the marmalade with equal parts seedless orange jam or preserves.
  • If you prefer a more intense orange flavor, add 1 teaspoon of fresh orange juice to the dough mixture.
  • These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

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