Preheat oven to 375℉ (190℃). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes.
Add eggs, water, and vanilla extract until combined.
Whisk flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into butter mixture just until combined.
Fold in oats, cranberries and optional orange zest or white chocolate chips.
Chill dough for 20 to 30 minutes if it feels very soft. This helps prevent spreading.
Bake 9 to 11 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and centers still look soft.
Cool in the pan for 2 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
