Name: Cranberry Pumpkin Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup white sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 cup solid pack pumpkin purée; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup halved fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1 tablespoon orange zest

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Cranberry pumpkin cookies are soft, spiced, and bursting with fall flavors. With fresh cranberries, pumpkin purée, and a hint of orange zest, these cookies strike a balance between sweet, tart, and warmly spiced. Perfect for holiday gatherings, autumn baking, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies are a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines pumpkin and cranberries for a festive flavor combo
Soft, cake-like texture with a touch of spice
Fresh orange zest brightens the flavor
Easy to make in one bowl with simple ingredients
Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or fall cookie platters

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup solid pack pumpkin purée
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup halved fresh cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon orange zest

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease 2 cookie sheets.
In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Mix in pumpkin purée, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir into pumpkin mixture until combined.
Fold in cranberries, walnuts, and orange zest until evenly distributed.
Drop teaspoonfuls of dough 2 inches apart onto prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden.
Cool on wire racks before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 36 cookies.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

Add white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the tart cranberries.
Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Use dried cranberries instead of fresh for a chewier texture.
Add nutmeg or cloves for extra spice.
Drizzle with an orange glaze for a bakery-style finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week for longer freshness.
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Warm briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use canned cranberry sauce instead of fresh cranberries?

No, fresh or dried cranberries work best since sauce would make the dough too wet.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, use 3/4 cup dried cranberries in place of fresh.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Do I need to peel fresh cranberries before baking?

No, cranberries can be used whole or halved as-is.

Can I freeze the dough instead of baked cookies?

Yes, portion the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I skip the orange zest?

Yes, but it adds brightness that complements the pumpkin and cranberries.

What type of nuts work best in this recipe?

Walnuts are classic, but pecans or hazelnuts also pair well.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Your butter may have been too soft, or the dough wasn’t chilled. Try chilling before baking.

Can I glaze these cookies?

Yes, a simple orange or vanilla glaze adds a sweet finish.

Conclusion

Cranberry pumpkin cookies are a delightful seasonal treat, combining tart cranberries, spiced pumpkin, and zesty orange for a cookie that feels festive and comforting. Whether for a holiday cookie tray or a cozy fall snack, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.

Maggie

Cranberry Pumpkin Cookies