Creamsicle Orange Cookies Recipe

These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. With the addition of white chocolate chips, they create a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Inspired by the classic creamsicle, these cookies are a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Citrus Flavor: Fresh orange zest and juice give these cookies a sunny, refreshing taste.
• Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy with just the right amount of crisp edges.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
• Unique Twist: White chocolate chips add a creamy, rich element that complements the citrus flavor beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1½ cups white chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

1. Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.

Step 6: Fold in White Chocolate Chips

1. Carefully fold in the white chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Portion the Dough

1. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
2. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets lined with parchment or silicone mats
• Wire cooling rack
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions: These cookies are perfect as a refreshing treat on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. Serve them as a light dessert or add them to a holiday cookie platter.
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion out the dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Recipe Variations

• Add Nuts: For extra texture, mix in ½ cup of chopped macadamia nuts or almonds along with the white chocolate chips.
• Use Lemon Zest: Try substituting lemon zest and juice for the orange to create a lemon creamsicle flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Swap the white chocolate chips for dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a richer, slightly bitter contrast to the citrus.
• Orange Glaze: Drizzle an orange glaze over the cooled cookies by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of orange juice for extra sweetness and a pop of color.

Helpful Notes

• Fresh Zest and Juice: Use fresh orange zest and juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice lacks the brightness that makes these cookies shine.
• Chill Dough for Firmer Cookies: If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking to help control spreading.
• Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cookies light and tender.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Ina Garten’s Tip for Soft Cookies: To keep cookies soft, slightly underbake them and let them finish setting as they cool on the baking sheet.
Dorie Greenspan’s Flavor Tip: Always use fresh citrus zest to enhance flavor in baked goods—it adds a burst of aroma and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Be sure to still use fresh zest for the full citrus effect.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened, not melted. Chilling the dough for a short time before baking can also help control spreading.

Do I have to use white chocolate chips?
No, you can substitute with milk or dark chocolate chips, though white chocolate enhances the creamsicle flavor.

Can I freeze baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are bursting with citrusy goodness and creamy white chocolate, making them a fun twist on classic cookies. With their bright flavor and soft texture, they’re a treat you’ll want to bake (and eat) again and again. Enjoy the taste of summer sunshine or cozy up with these cookies for a sweet escape any time of year!

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