White Chocolate Cranberry Cream Cheese Crinkle Cookies

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White Chocolate Cranberry Cream Cheese Crinkle Cookies – Soft, Tangy, and Perfectly Festive

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s equal parts cozy, elegant, and holiday-ready, these White Chocolate Cranberry Cream Cheese Crinkle Cookies are it. They’re soft and chewy with a subtle tang from cream cheese, bursts of tart cranberry, and creamy white chocolate chips—all wrapped in a delicate crinkle of powdered sugar.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, holiday party, or just a cozy night in with a cup of tea, these cookies are guaranteed to impress. They’re beautiful, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

  • Soft and chewy texture – Thanks to the cream cheese and perfect blend of leavening agents.
  • Festive flavor combo – Tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate are a match made in cookie heaven.
  • Crinkle finish – A snowy powdered sugar coating gives them that classic holiday look.
  • Easy to make – No chilling required, and they bake in just 10–12 minutes.
  • Perfect for gifting – Package in tins or jars for a homemade holiday treat.

Ingredients

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Mix-Ins & Coating

  • ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • ½ cup white chocolate chips
  • ½ cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Tip: Use high-quality white chocolate chips and real vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cookie scoop (optional)
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:

  • ½ cup softened butter
  • 4 oz softened cream cheese
  • 1 cup sugar

Mix on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add:

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

  • 1¾ cups flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries and White Chocolate

Gently fold in:

  • ½ cup chopped dried cranberries
  • ½ cup white chocolate chips

The dough will be soft but scoopable.

Step 6: Roll and Coat

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.

Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.

Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are crinkled and the edges are just set.

Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
  • Total Time: ~30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Calories: ~140 kcal per cookie (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing.
  • Don’t overbake—cookies should be soft in the center.
  • Chop cranberries finely for even distribution.
  • Roll generously in powdered sugar for a dramatic crinkle effect.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Variations to Try

  • Orange Zest Twist: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest to the dough.
  • Nutty Crunch: Fold in ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
  • Chocolate Swap: Use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of white.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Holiday Spice: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Perfect For…

  • Holiday cookie trays
  • Gift boxes and tins
  • Cookie exchanges
  • Afternoon tea
  • Just-because baking

Final Thoughts

These White Chocolate Cranberry Cream Cheese Crinkle Cookies are the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form. They’re soft, sweet, and just a little tart—perfect for the holidays or any time you want to bake something special. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or keeping a stash for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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