The aroma of fresh cookies wafting through the kitchen can transform an ordinary day into something magical, can't it? Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts, a delightful treat that perfectly balances cozy spices with the tartness of cranberries. Not only are these cookies quick to whip up—taking just about 32 minutes from start to finish—but they also bring everyone together, making them a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Imagine serving these soft, chewy bites at your next gathering, or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea after a long day. They’re not just cookies; they're a warm hug on a plate! Curious to know how to make these delicious cookies? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful chewiness that’s simply irresistible.
Warm Spices: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen with holiday spirit.
Nutty Crunch: Chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch, enhancing each flavorful bite.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 32 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a spontaneous baking session.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a family gathering or tea time, these cookies will charm everyone and leave them asking for seconds!
If you’re also looking for more delightful treats, you should check out my Delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies or explore some Easy Baking Tips to elevate your cookie game!
Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted butter – Softened butter ensures a rich, creamy texture that binds the ingredients perfectly.
- Brown sugar – Packed for depth of flavor and moisture, creating that chewy texture we all love.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a lovely golden color.
- Large eggs – Essential for binding and providing structure to the cookies.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses the dough with a warm, comforting aroma that enhances the cookie's flavor.
For the Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – The base of the cookies, giving them structure; sift for lighter cookies!
- Baking soda – This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Ground cinnamon – A main player in giving these chewy spiced cranberry cookies their signature warmth and fragrance.
- Ground nutmeg – Offers a subtle hint of spice that complements the cranberries beautifully.
- Ground cloves – Just a pinch adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
For Add-Ins
- Dried cranberries – Their tartness brings a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Chopped walnuts – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, making every bite a satisfying experience.
Get ready to bake up a storm with these Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cookie dough. This ensures an even baking temperature. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to mix for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a delightful base for your Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts.
Step 3: Mix in the Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth blend. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until just combined. This step adds moisture and enhances the flavor of your cookies, preparing the dough for the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This mixture incorporates air into the flour while evenly distributing the spices, essential for flavorful Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. The result should be a thick, slightly sticky dough that’s rich in flavor.
Step 6: Add Cranberries and Walnuts
Gently fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1 cup of chopped walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step infuses your Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts with delightful textures and bursts of flavor, making them irresistible.
Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop heaping tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This space allows for spreading as they bake, ensuring that your cookies maintain their perfect chewy texture.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done when the edges start turning golden brown and the centers look set yet still chewy. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly and a sign that delicious cookies are on their way!
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring to a wire rack, where they’ll cool completely and be ready for your enjoyment.
Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delicious cookies!
- Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely to cater to nut allergies while keeping that delightful texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a cookie that everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter, creating a rich and flavorful treat perfect for dairy-sensitive friends.
- Add Chocolate: Mix in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips for a luscious twist that complements the cranberries and spices beautifully.
- Spice it Up: Enhance the warmth by adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who love a little heat!
- Cranberry Variation: Try dried cherries or raisins instead of cranberries for a sweet twist that alters the flavor profile entirely.
- Orange Zest: Grate a teaspoon of fresh orange zest into the dough to introduce a bright, citrusy kick that balances the spices beautifully.
- Rolled Oats: Replace half a cup of flour with rolled oats to create a chewy, hearty texture and add another layer of flavor.
If you're looking for more inspiration, you should check out my Delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies or explore some Easy Baking Tips to elevate your cookie game!
How to Store and Freeze Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, placing them in the fridge will prolong their freshness for about a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm.
What to Serve with Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts
The warmth and delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies can inspire the perfect spread to create a cozy gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and smooth, a scoop beside your cookies amplifies the sweet and spiced flavors beautifully.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich and decadent, this drink brings out the comforting spices and makes every bite of your cookies feel luxurious.
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Cheese Platter: The sharpness of aged cheddar or creamy brie offers a contrasting flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of fruits like apples, oranges, and pomegranates adds brightness and a healthy touch to your dessert spread. Each bite of fruit complements the sweetness and chewy texture of the cookies.
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Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai with its aromatic spices echoes the flavors in the cookies, creating a harmonious experience that’s both soothing and comforting.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the cookies' delightful chewiness while adding a fluffy texture to each bite.
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Cranberry Sauce: A small serving of tart cranberry sauce brings a tangy kick, harmonizing perfectly with the dried cranberries in the cookies.
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Nutty Coffee: A cup of coffee with nutty undertones elevates the flavors with every sip, perfect for savoring alongside your Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts.
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts are perfect for busy weeknights and can simplify your meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator (this helps enhance the flavors). Alternatively, you can scoop the cookie dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just place the frozen dough on a baking sheet when you're ready to bake, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. To maintain quality, allow the frozen dough to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. When you're ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, simply bake and serve them fresh from the oven for that warm, freshly baked taste!
Expert Tips for Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies
Perfect Butter Temperature: Always use softened butter for the best texture. Cold butter won't cream properly, resulting in dense cookies.
Don't Overmix: Mix your cookie dough just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of chewy ones.
Spacing Matters: When placing cookie dough on the baking sheet, ensure there’s enough space—about 2 inches apart—so they don’t stick together while baking.
Check Your Oven: Ovens can vary in temperature; keep an eye on your cookies and consider using an oven thermometer for accurate baking of your Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts.
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps them set and maintain their chewy texture.
Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best dried cranberries for the cookies?
Absolutely! Look for dried cranberries that are plump and soft, with a vibrant red color. Avoid those with dark spots or a hard texture, as they might be stale or overly dried. For added flavor, consider cranberries sweetened with apple juice, which can enhance the sweetness of your cookies.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very simple! Store your Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can place them in the fridge, where they'll stay fresh for about a week. Just allow them to come back to room temperature for the best taste!
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, stack them with a piece of parchment paper in between each cookie to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, and they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a delightful treat.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky to handle, it could be due to the humidity or measuring differences. No worries! You can add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches a manageable consistency. Additionally, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes can help firm it up and make it easier to scoop.
Are these cookies safe for everyone to enjoy?
When it comes to allergies, it’s always good to check! These Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts contain common allergens like gluten and nuts. For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts and perhaps substitute with sunflower seeds. Always ensure that your ingredients are free from cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Using fresh cranberries is a delightful twist! However, remember that fresh cranberries are significantly more tart, so consider increasing the sugar in the recipe. I'd recommend using about ¼ cup more granulated sugar to balance the flavors. Enjoy the burst of freshness they bring!
Irresistibly Chewy Spiced Cranberry Cookies with Walnuts
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- cookie scoop
- Baking sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Add-Ins
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time and beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers look set but chewy.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
