White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

Introduction

White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and tart. The smooth richness of white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tangy pop of dried cranberries, making them a festive favorite for holidays, gatherings, or simple everyday indulgence. These cookies are soft in the middle, lightly crisp at the edges, and each bite is bursting with flavor. Loved by children and adults alike, they bring both comfort and elegance to the dessert table.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (12 Tbsp or 1 ½ sticks)

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup white chocolate chips (or chunks)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and Chocolate

Gently mix in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked—this keeps them soft.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or cooled.

History & Inspiration

Cranberries, native to North America, have long been used in sauces, juices, and festive dishes. Their tart flavor made them a natural fit for sweet baked goods, balancing richness with brightness. White chocolate, introduced in the 20th century, became the perfect creamy counterpart. When bakers combined the two, White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies quickly became a holiday favorite and have since grown into a year-round classic.

Conclusion

White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a bite of joy, warmth, and togetherness. With their rich flavors, festive look, and easy preparation, they deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection. Bake them once, and they may just become your signature cookie.