Vegan Orange Cranberry Cookies

Bring a burst of citrus sunshine to your cookie jar with these Vegan Orange Cranberry Cookies. Feather-light and irresistibly chewy, every bite is a harmonious blend of bright, zesty orange and sweet, tart cranberries, all entwined with a whisper of fragrant vanilla. The dough comes together effortlessly, making these cookies a joy to bake whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or just dabbling in plant-based treats. You’ll be amazed at how delightfully rich and buttery they taste, with no dairy or eggs in sight.

Perfect for impressing guests at gatherings, brightening a holiday dessert spread, or turning an ordinary afternoon into a special occasion, these cookies are as versatile as they are delicious. The unsweetened applesauce keeps them moist, while the orange zest elevates their flavor profile with a citrusy punch. Best of all, these vegan cookies don’t skimp on texture or taste—they’re every bit as indulgent as their traditional counterparts while being kind to your body and the planet.

Vegan Orange Cranberry Cookies

Print Recipe

By Malini Serves: 24 Prep Time: 15 m Cooking Time: 6 m

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup margarine
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

Instructions

1

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease two baking sheets.

2

Cream together the sugar, margarine, freshly grated orange zest, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and combined.

3

Gently mix in the flour, unsweetened applesauce, and dried cranberries, stirring until a sticky cookie dough forms.

4

Spoon tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart, and gently press each dough ball to slightly flatten.

5

Bake for 6 to 7 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden brown.

6

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely—about 15 minutes.

Notes

Tips:
Use freshly grated orange zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor. For a firmer texture, chill the dough for 20 minutes before baking. If you prefer, substitute vegan butter for margarine, and feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch. Storing these cookies in an airtight container will keep them soft and chewy for several days.