Whole Wheat Cranberry, Orange, and Cashew Icebox Cookies

Dec 17

As a dietitian who encourages baking with whole grains for extra fiber and nutrition, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings together the delicious flavors of cranberries, orange, and cashews in a wholesome icebox cookie. These cookies aren’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth—they’re about nourishing your body with fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein. And the best part? They’re so versatile!

Icebox cookies have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, my mom would make variations of icebox cookies for holidays, family gatherings, and casual get-togethers. These cookies were always a hit—whether they were studded with chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts. The beauty of icebox cookies is that they’re adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand, and they’re an easy, crowd-pleasing choice for hosting. So, whether you’re making these for a cozy family night or preparing for a larger event, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why Whole Grain Flour?

One of my main goals as a dietitian is to inspire people to bake with whole grains. By using whole wheat flour or other whole grain flours in your baking, you’re adding fiber, B-vitamins, and essential minerals that are stripped away in refined flours. Fiber is key to supporting digestive health, stabilizing blood sugar, and keeping you feeling full for longer. Using whole grain flours in cookies is an easy way to boost the nutrition of a classic treat, without sacrificing flavor!

The Power of Cranberries, Orange, and Cashews (or Your Favorite Nut!)

In this recipe, you’ll enjoy the natural sweetness of dried cranberries, the bright citrusy kick of orange zest, and the satisfying crunch of cashews. Here’s a closer look at what each ingredient brings to the table:

Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, cranberries help support a healthy immune system and provide a burst of tart sweetness that balances out the richer flavors of the dough.
Orange zest: Infusing the dough with the aromatic oils from orange peel adds a fresh, citrusy flavor, and of course, oranges are a great source of vitamin C and fiber.
Cashews (or your choice of nuts): Nuts like cashews not only contribute a delightful crunch but also provide a wealth of nutrition. Cashews are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for cashews:
- Protein: About 5g of protein per ounce (roughly 18 cashews). Protein helps build and repair tissues and supports immune function.
- Healthy Fats: Cashews are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
- Fiber: Each ounce of cashews provides about 1g of fiber, supporting digestive health and helping to keep you feeling full longer.

But what if you want to change things up? Icebox cookies are incredibly versatile. Instead of cashews, you can swap in pistachios, walnuts, almonds, or any other nut of your choice. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply leave out the nuts altogether or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a different crunch.

Icebox Cookies: What Are They?

If you’ve never made icebox cookies before, here’s a quick overview: icebox cookies (also known as refrigerator cookies) are made by chilling the dough in the fridge (or freezer) before slicing and baking. This method firms up the dough, making it easier to slice into neat rounds and helps the flavors to develop. It’s an ideal technique for making cookies in advance, so they’re perfect for hosting or preparing ahead for busy weeks.