Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Biscuits are the perfect festive treat, bringing a delightful burst of flavours to your holiday celebrations. These cookies are not only chewy and delicious but also star bright red cranberries and a hint of zesty orange, making them a true seasonal favourite. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, festive parties, or just for yourself, these biscuits will fill your kitchen with warmth and a wonderful aroma. Let’s dive into how to whip up this delightful festive biscuit!
What You’ll Need for Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Biscuits
Gather these fantastic ingredients to create your tasty treats:
- Butter, softened: 1 cup (226 g)
- Brown sugar (packed): 1 cup (200 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Large eggs: 2
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups (315 g)
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried cranberries: 1 cup (150 g)
- Orange zest: 1 tablespoon
- White chocolate chips (optional): 1 cup (170 g)
Step-by-Step Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Biscuit Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending well after each addition.
- Fold in the dried cranberries, orange zest, and white chocolate chips if you’re using them.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the biscuits to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Biscuits
Serving these delicious biscuits is a joy! You can arrange them beautifully on a festive platter or place them in a decorative tin for gifting. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat, or enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. These biscuits also make a lovely addition to a Christmas dessert table, brightening up the spread with their cheery colours.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add Spices: For an extra festive touch, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Mix in Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch to your biscuits if you’re looking for more texture.
- Storage: These biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for enjoying all holiday season long!
Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Biscuits: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you’ll need to adjust the sugar as they are tart. Aim for about 3/4 cup of sugar added to the mixture.
How do I know when the biscuits are done?
The biscuits should have golden brown edges. A little soft in the middle is fine, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough in advance and chill it in the fridge for up to two days. Just scoop and bake as needed.
Baking Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Biscuits is a wonderful way to spread holiday joy. The combination of sweet cranberries and zesty orange is sure to delight everyone! So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the festive baking experience.