I recently discovered the Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie, a delightful blend of flavors that surprised me. The nutty brown butter complements the tart cranberries and zesty orange perfectly. It’s a simple recipe that yields about 24 cookies, making it a great option for gatherings. I was impressed by how well they balanced sweetness and savoriness. Curious about what makes this cookie so special? Let’s explore the essentials together.
What kind of recipe is it?
The Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie is a delightful twist on traditional cookies, offering a unique flavor profile that combines the nutty richness of brown butter with the tartness of cranberries and the zesty brightness of orange.
Its chewy texture, complemented by crispy edges, makes it a delightful treat for cookie lovers. Ideal for festive gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this recipe appeals to those who enjoy baking and want to impress friends and family with a gourmet touch.
Perfect for the holidays, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking delicious seasonal flavors!
Preparation Time
Here is the detailed table for the Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie recipe:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty of the Recipe | Moderate |
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Number of Servings | Approximately 24 cookies |
This information provides a clear overview of what to expect when preparing the Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie, highlighting its moderate difficulty, reasonable preparation time, and yield.
Ingredients
Here is the detailed table of ingredients for the Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (226 grams) |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup (150 grams) |
| Brown Sugar | 3/4 cup (165 grams) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 1/4 cups (280 grams) |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Cranberries | 1 cup (150 grams) |
| Zest of Orange | 1 tablespoon |
| Orange Juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped Nuts (optional) | 1/2 cup (75 grams) |
This table provides a comprehensive list of the ingredients and their respective quantities needed to prepare the Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Here’s a detailed table showcasing the essential kitchen equipment needed to prepare Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookies, including their purposes and alternative options:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls (large and medium) | Used for mixing dough ingredients, ensuring thorough incorporation. | Any large bowl or medium bowl |
| Measuring Cups (dry and liquid) | Essential for accurately measuring flour, sugar, and liquid ingredients. | Any cup with measurement markings |
| Measuring Spoons | Used for measuring small quantities of ingredients like baking soda, vanilla, and salt. | Teaspoon or tablespoon from your kitchen utensil set |
| Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer | For effortless mixing of ingredients to achieve a fluffy dough texture. | Whisk by hand (though it requires more effort) |
| Rubber Spatula | Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in ingredients. | Silicone spatula or a sturdy spoon |
| Wooden Spoon | Useful for mixing the dough, especially when adding flour. | Any strong spoon (metal or plastic) |
| Baking Sheets (2-3) | Needed for placing cookies to bake evenly in the oven. | Any flat baking tray or sheet |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats | Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and aids in even baking. | Aluminum foil (may not prevent sticking) |
| Cookie Scoop or Spoon | For portioning cookie dough uniformly for even baking. | Table spoon (adjust size for consistency) |
| Cooling Rack | Allows cookies to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess. | A clean dish rack or wire rack |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature for baking. | Manual oven temperature check (by observing baking times) |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of the necessary kitchen equipment along with alternatives, making it easier for bakers to prepare their delicious Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookies efficiently.
Cooking Steps
1. Mise en Place: Gather all ingredients and kitchen equipment listed in the essential kitchen equipment table. Ensure you have 226 g (1 cup) unsalted butter, 200 g (1 cup) packed brown sugar, 100 g (½ cup) white sugar, 1 large egg, 5 ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract, 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour, 5 g (1 tsp) baking soda, 2 g (½ tsp) salt, 100 g (1 cup) dried cranberries, and zest from 1 large orange.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Position the oven rack in the center. Optionally, if using convection, adjust the temperature down to 165 °C (325 °F).
3. Prepare Baking Sheet****: Line 2-3 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats, ensuring they’re flat and smooth to promote even baking.
4. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 226 g (1 cup) of unsalted butter, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, approximately 5-8 minutes. Remove from heat once browned and allow to cool slightly.
5. Mix Sugars and Wet Ingredients****: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, 200 g (1 cup) packed brown sugar, and 100 g (½ cup) white sugar. Whisk until fully combined.
Add the egg and 5 ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
6. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour, 5 g (1 tsp) baking soda, and 2 g (½ tsp) salt until homogenous.
7. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold until just combined without overmixing.
The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
8. Add Cranberries and Zest: Gently fold in 100 g (1 cup) dried cranberries and the zest from 1 large orange until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
9. Scoop Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out dough balls about 30 g (2 tablespoons) each onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow spreading during baking.
10. Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but slightly soft.
They should have a subtle aroma of toasted orange and cranberry.
11. Cool Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.
This prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation beneath the cookies.
12. Storage: Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Cranberry: Substitute half of the dried cranberries (50 g) with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich flavor twist.
- Vegan Orange Cookies: Replace unsalted butter with 226 g (1 cup) coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) instead of the egg for a dairy-free, egg-free version.
- Gluten-Free Citrus Cookies: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (240 g) to make these cookies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Spiced Ginger Cookies: Add 5 g (1 tsp) ground ginger and 5 g (1 tsp) ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor profile perfect for the holidays.
- Lemon Cranberry Cookies: Substitute the orange zest for zest from 1 large lemon, pairing the tartness of lemon with cranberries for a bright flavor.
- Nutty Orange Cookies: Fold 100 g (1 cup) chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture and a nutty flavor.
- Maple Cranberry Cookies: Replace the brown sugar with 200 g (1 cup) maple sugar for a rich maple essence and unique sweetness.
- Baked in a Skillet: Spread the dough evenly in a greased skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes at 180 °C (350 °F) for a giant cookie approach that’s perfect for sharing.
Tips on plating and presentation
After you’ve experimented with various delicious variations of the Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie, it’s time to think about how to showcase them beautifully.
Use simple plating techniques, like stacking a few cookies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for visual appeal.
A vibrant plate or a rustic wooden board can elevate the presentation, making your cookies even more tempting.
Enjoy impressing your guests!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
While the Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookie shines on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes that enhance its flavors.
I love serving it alongside a rich chocolate tart or a spiced pumpkin cheesecake for festive desserts. These cookie pairings create a vibrant dessert spread, inviting everyone to indulge in the delightful combination of textures and tastes.
What drinks can I pair it with?
To elevate your experience with Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookies, consider pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a smooth glass of bourbon.
If you’re in the mood for a festive twist, explore seasonal beverages like mulled wine or hot apple cider.
For cocktail pairings, a gin and tonic with a hint of orange zest complements the cookies perfectly.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Brown Butter Cranberry Orange Cookies?
Absolutely, I freeze cookies all the time! Just cool them completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or use airtight containers. Those storage tips ensure they stay fresh and delicious for later enjoyment.
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. For longer shelf life, I recommend storing them in an airtight container. Make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place for optimal freshness!
Are There Gluten-Free Options Available for This Recipe?
Yes, I can make gluten-free options using gluten-free flour and adjusting the baking soda. I’ve had great success with these alternatives, ensuring the cookies turn out delicious without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Butter?
Instead of brown butter, I use coconut oil or ghee for a nutty flavor and smooth texture. They create a delightful richness in my recipes while keeping everything deliciously satisfying. Give it a try!
Can I Substitute Dried Cranberries for Fresh Ones?
Sure, you can substitute dried cranberries for fresh ones, but expect flavor differences. Dried cranberries are sweeter and less tart. I prefer fresh, but if dried’s what you’ve got, it’ll still work well!