1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.

4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth and combined.

5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until a soft dough forms.

6. Fold in the white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, and orange zest if using.

7. Chill the dough for 30 minutes to help the cookies bake thicker and chewier.

8. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers still look soft.

10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.