These Creamsicle Orange Cookies bring a burst of sunny citrus flavor that is both refreshing and delightful. With the creamy, tangy essence of orange and a soft, chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for brightening up any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, a cozy afternoon treat, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are an easy and irresistible choice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Bake the Cookies
- Portion the Dough: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should remain soft.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Enjoy these cookies fresh, with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They’re also a delightful treat to share at gatherings.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For extra softness, add a slice of bread to the container.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place cooled cookies in a single layer in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly less sweet cookie, you can reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup.
- Add a Glaze: For an extra touch, drizzle with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of orange juice once the cookies have cooled.
- For Extra Orange Flavor: Increase the zest or add a few drops of orange extract to enhance the citrusy flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- For Lighter, Fluffier Cookies: Chef Dorie Greenspan suggests using room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and lighter texture.
- Chill the Dough: Pastry Chef Claire Saffitz recommends chilling the dough for 20 minutes before baking for a more controlled spread and a chewy texture.
- Maximize Citrus Flavor: Chef Ina Garten advises zesting directly over the mixing bowl to capture the essential oils released from the orange zest.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use orange extract instead of orange juice?
Yes, you can substitute orange extract for a more concentrated flavor. Use 1-2 teaspoons of extract in place of the orange juice, and add a bit of milk for moisture if needed.
2. Can I use a different type of citrus?
Absolutely! Lemon, lime, or even grapefruit can be used in place of orange for a different twist.
3. Can I add white chocolate chips?
Yes, white chocolate chips pair wonderfully with the citrus flavor and can add a delightful creamy texture.
4. How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature slightly before baking.
6. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to choose one that works as a 1:1 replacement.
7. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can help control spreading.
8. Are these cookies very sweet?
They’re moderately sweet with a nice balance of citrus. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar slightly.
9. Can I add frosting to these cookies?
Yes! A cream cheese or orange glaze would be a wonderful addition for a frosted touch.
10. Do I need to zest the orange before juicing it?
Yes, it’s easier to zest the orange before juicing, as zesting becomes more challenging once the fruit is soft.
These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are a fun, citrusy twist on a classic cookie that’s sure to brighten your day. With their soft texture and refreshing orange flavor, they’re perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or as a sweet afternoon treat. Enjoy baking and sharing these sunny delights!