If you are searching for the perfect balance of tart and sweet with a delightful hint of spice, this Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. These charming cookies bring together the bright, tangy burst of fresh cranberries cooked down into a luscious filling, hugged between tender, cinnamon-kissed buttery cookies. Whether it’s for holiday cheer or a cozy afternoon treat, they deliver an unforgettable taste experience with every bite. The Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe offers an inviting way to enjoy seasonal flavors in a beautifully simple yet satisfying form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, using simple ingredients that each play an essential role in creating texture, flavor, and festive color. The combination is what makes these cookies truly shine, so having everything fresh and ready is key!
- Cranberries (2 x 12 oz packs): Fresh cranberries bring that vibrant tartness and a pop of color that makes the filling so irresistible.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup): Adds warmth and depth of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries perfectly.
- Cinnamon sticks (2 whole): Infuses subtle spice during the cranberry cooking that brightens the flavor.
- Apple cider (1 cup): Adds fruity acidity and moisture, deepening the filling’s complexity.
- Unsalted sweet cream butter (1 cup, softened): The base for the tender cookie, contributing a rich, creamy texture.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the cookie dough delicately while ensuring a smooth crumb.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall aroma and flavor, lifting the cookie beyond just sweetness.
- Egg (1 whole): Provides structure and richness to the dough for perfect binding.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The core structure of the cookie, gives it the perfect tender but sturdy bite.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise slightly and maintain a light texture.
- Cream of tartar (1 tsp): Adds a subtle tang and assists in leavening to keep cookies tender.
How to Make Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
Begin by rinsing the cranberries and then simmering them gently with the light brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple cider. Allow this mixture to cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens into a beautiful, glossy filling. This step is where the heart of the Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe comes alive — the flavors meld into a deliciously tart and sweet spread that will complement the cookies beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
While the filling cools, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the vanilla and egg next, mixing until just combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care not to overmix, to keep the dough tender and soft but sturdy enough to hold up once baked.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly before placing them on the sheets, keeping enough space for gentle spreading. Bake for around 8 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Let the cookies cool completely; this step is crucial so the filling doesn’t melt once assembled.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once the cookies are cooled, generously spoon or pipe the cranberry filling on the bottom of one cookie and gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. The filling acts as a luscious binder that unites both cookies in a perfectly balanced bite of tart and sweet delight.
How to Serve Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, consider dusting the finished sandwich cookies lightly with powdered sugar or rolling the exposed edges of the cranberry filling in finely chopped pistachios or edible glitter. These small touches elevate the presentation and add a little crunch or sparkle, making the experience even more special.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages such as a spiced chai tea or classic hot cocoa, enhancing the cozy seasonal vibe. If serving at a party or brunch, fresh fruit platters with apples and pears complement the tartness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these sandwich cookies on a tiered dessert stand for a charming display that invites guests to snack indulgently. Wrapping each cookie sandwich individually in wax paper tied with a ribbon is perfect for gifting or as party favors. You could also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a gourmet dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your cranberry sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Keeping them sealed preserves the tender texture of the cookies and the lusciousness of the cranberry filling.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either before assembly or fully assembled. If freezing before assembly, store the baked cookies in a sealed container with parchment between layers. After thawing, fill with cranberry spread as usual. For assembled cookie sandwiches, wrap each one well and freeze for up to two months, thawing gradually at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
While these cookies are best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature, if you prefer to warm them slightly, pop them into a warm oven (around 300°F) for just a few minutes. This will soften the filling and refresh the buttery cookie without making them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are key for the vibrant tart flavor and the juicy filling texture. Dried cranberries won’t provide the same burst of moisture and tang, so they are not recommended for this recipe.
Is there a substitute for apple cider in the filling?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can use fresh apple juice or even orange juice to add a touch of acidity and fruity sweetness to the cranberry filling without altering the balance badly.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking to get the best texture.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough briefly before baking can help keep the cookies from spreading too much. Also, make sure not to over-bake as this can cause excessive spreading and dryness.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for cookies, but results may vary slightly in texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly heartwarming about making and sharing the Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe. The mix of tart, sweet, buttery, and spiced notes creates a cookie that feels luxurious yet comforting at the same time. Whether you are baking for friends, family, or just to treat yourself, these cookies bring a festive sparkle that is sure to brighten any day. I truly hope you have as much joy making and eating them as I do!
Print
Cranberry Sandwich Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes plus cooling and assembly time
- Yield: 24 cookies (12 sandwich cookies)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully spiced cranberry sandwich cookies featuring a tart cranberry filling encased between soft, cinnamon-scented cookies. Perfect for the holiday season or anytime you crave a flavorful, festive treat.
Ingredients
Cranberry Filling
- 2 (12 oz) bags fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 whole cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup apple cider
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted sweet cream butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions
- Make the Cranberry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed cranberries, light brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple cider. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely; this will be your tart cranberry filling.
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract and egg until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls, then flatten each slightly. Place half of the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8 minutes, or until edges are set and bottoms are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Spread a spoonful of the cooled cranberry filling onto each baked cookie and top with another cookie to form a sandwich. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cranberry filling is fully cooled before assembling to prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.
- You can prepare the cranberry filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a less tart filling, add a little more sugar during cooking to taste.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
- Store the sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
