Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets**
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.

#### 2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step helps distribute the dry ingredients evenly throughout the dough.

#### 3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter with both the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

#### 4. **Add the Wet Ingredients**
Once the butter and sugar are creamed, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (and lemon juice if you’re using it). The zest of the lemon adds a fresh, aromatic touch that will infuse the cookies with a burst of citrusy flavor.

#### 5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough; a few flour streaks are okay.

#### 6. **Add Oats, Cranberries, and Walnuts**
Fold in the rolled oats, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. The oats give the cookies their signature chewy texture, while the cranberries add tartness and the walnuts provide a nice crunch.

#### 7. **Scoop the Dough**
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you prefer larger cookies, feel free to use a bigger scoop, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

#### 8. **Bake**
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.

#### 9. **Cool and Serve**
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set while still warm, preventing them from breaking apart.

### Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest

– **Bright and Flavorful**: The combination of tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and fresh lemon zest creates a perfectly balanced cookie that’s sweet, savory, and citrusy all at once.
– **Wholesome Ingredients**: With oats, walnuts, and dried cranberries, these cookies offer a nutritious twist, providing fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making them a slightly healthier indulgence.
– **Chewy Texture**: The rolled oats create a chewy base that’s satisfying with every bite, while the nuts add a delightful crunch.
– **Versatile**: Whether it’s for holiday baking, a bake sale, or just a snack at home, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. They also make a thoughtful homemade gift.

### Tips for Perfect Cookies

– **Chill the Dough**: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and allows the flavors to develop even more.
– **Toast the Walnuts**: For a deeper nutty flavor, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the dough. Simply toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until fragrant.
– **Customize the Recipe**: Feel free to play with the ingredients! Add a handful of white chocolate chips or substitute the walnuts with pecans if you prefer a different nut. For extra tartness, you could even add a handful of fresh cranberries, though be mindful of the extra moisture they may add to the dough.

### The Perfect Holiday Cookie

Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest are an excellent addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their bright, citrusy flavor stands out among more traditional cookies like gingerbread and sugar cookies, making them a refreshing change of pace. The combination of textures—chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and chewy cranberries—creates a cookie that’s satisfying yet light, perfect for enjoying with a hot drink after a busy day.

### Conclusion

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines comfort with a burst of fresh flavor, these Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest are just what you need. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a treat, these cookies will bring a smile to your face with every bite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or share them with loved ones—they’re sure to be a hit every time!