Cranberry Macadamia Delight Cookies
These delectable Cranberry Macadamia Delight Cookies are a perfect blend of rich, buttery macadamia nuts and tart, chewy cranberries. Adapted from a favorite classic, this recipe creates cookies that are crispy on the outside yet soft and chewy on the inside. With a hint of nutmeg and the sweetness of sugars, these cookies are sure to become a hit at any gathering or as a special treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea. Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors that will have your family and friends asking for more!
24
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
macadamia nuts
2/3 cup (chopped)
butter
1 tablespoon (softened)
brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
granulated sugar
1/2 cup (for dough and extra for dipping)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
egg
1 (large)
all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups
baking soda
1/2 teaspoon
salt
1/4 teaspoon
nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (freshly grated preferred)
dried cranberries
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
In a food processor, combine the chopped macadamia nuts and softened butter. Process until smooth and creamy.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the macadamia nut mixture with the packed brown sugar and granulated sugar. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.
4
Add the vanilla extract and egg to the sugar mixture, and beat well until everything is incorporated.
5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
6
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
7
Fold in the chopped dried cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
8
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to firm up slightly.
9
Using your hands, roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and dip each ball into granulated sugar for extra sweetness.
10
Place the sugar-coated balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
11
Using a fork dipped in water, gently press down on each cookie to create a crisscross pattern, then press again to flatten just a bit.
12
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
13
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cranberry Macadamia Delight Cookies?
They are a delectable blend of rich, buttery macadamia nuts and tart, chewy cranberries, resulting in a cookie that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
How many cookies does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 24 servings.
What is the first step in preparing the dough?
The first step is to combine chopped macadamia nuts and softened butter in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
How do I mix the sugars into the recipe?
Combine the macadamia nut mixture with 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a large bowl and mix until smooth.
When should I add the egg and vanilla?
Add one large egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture after it is fully combined, then beat well.
What dry ingredients are needed?
The dry ingredients include 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg.
Is freshly grated nutmeg required?
While any nutmeg works, freshly grated nutmeg is preferred for the best flavor.
How should I combine the dry and wet ingredients?
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until they are just combined.
When do I add the cranberries?
Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped dried cranberries after the dry ingredients have been incorporated into the dough.
Does the cookie dough need to be chilled?
Yes, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to allow it to firm up slightly.
How do I shape the cookie dough?
Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls using your hands.
What is the purpose of the extra granulated sugar?
The extra granulated sugar is used to dip each dough ball into for added sweetness before baking.
How far apart should I space the cookies on the baking sheet?
Place the sugar-coated balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
How do I create the crisscross pattern on the cookies?
Use a fork dipped in water to gently press down on each cookie ball to create the pattern.
How long do the cookies bake for?
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
How do I know when the cookies are finished baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden.
How should the cookies be cooled?
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can I use a different type of nut?
While this recipe specifically features macadamia nuts for their buttery flavor, you could experiment with others, though it will change the profile.
Should the macadamia nuts be chopped before processing?
Yes, the recipe calls for 2/3 cup of chopped macadamia nuts.
What preparation is needed for the butter?
The one tablespoon of butter should be softened before being added to the food processor.
Is the brown sugar packed?
Yes, use 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar for the correct measurement and texture.
What kind of flour is best for these cookies?
All-purpose flour is the recommended type for this recipe.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
The recipe specifies dried cranberries; fresh ones would add too much moisture and change the texture.
Why dip the fork in water before pressing the cookies?
Dipping the fork in water prevents it from sticking to the cookie dough.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a Dessert.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 11 ingredients used in this recipe.
What tags are associated with these cookies?
Tags include cookies, dessert, macadamia nuts, cranberries, baking, sweet, and homemade.
Are these cookies suitable for tea time?
Yes, they are described as a special treat to enjoy with afternoon tea.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.