Name: Soft & Citrusy Orange Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large egg.; 1 cup confectioners' sugar.; 1-2 tbsp fresh orange juice.; 1 tbsp orange zest (about 2 oranges).; 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted.; ½ cup fresh orange juice.; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened.; ¾ cup granulated sugar.; ½ tsp salt.; 1¼ tsp baking powder.; 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour.; Zest of ½ orange.

Soft & Citrusy Orange Cookies are a refreshing and tender cookie treat, infused with vibrant citrus flavors from fresh orange zest and juice. These cookies are light, soft, and perfectly sweet, with a tangy orange glaze that adds an extra burst of flavor. The dough comes together easily with a combination of flour, butter, and freshly squeezed orange juice, while the glaze is made with confectioners' sugar, orange zest, and juice for a zesty finish. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a dessert platter, these cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves citrusy desserts.

Soft & Citrusy Orange Cookies are a delightful treat that packs a punch of vibrant citrus flavor. With the fresh zest and juice of oranges both in the dough and in the glaze, these cookies are light, tender, and bursting with refreshing sweetness. They’re perfect for those who love citrusy desserts or are looking for a bright and cheerful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

INGREDIENTS

Egg: 1 large, for binding the dough and adding richness.
Confectioners' sugar: 1 cup, to make the sweet glaze that complements the citrus flavor.
Orange juice: 1-2 tbsp (for glaze) + ½ cup (for dough), for the fresh citrus flavor.
Orange zest: 1 tbsp (for dough) + zest of ½ orange (for glaze), to add a vibrant citrusy aroma.
Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp, melted (for glaze), + ½ cup softened (for dough), for a rich and tender cookie texture.
Granulated sugar: ¾ cup, for sweetening the cookie dough.
Salt: ½ tsp, to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Baking powder: 1¼ tsp, to give the cookies a light and soft texture.
All-purpose flour: 2 cups + 2 tbsp, for the base of the cookies.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2:: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3:: In another bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, softened butter, and orange zest until light and fluffy.
Step 4:: Beat in the egg until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Step 5:: Gradually add the flour mixture and ½ cup of fresh orange juice, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6:: Portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet.
Step 7:: While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the confectioners' sugar, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and melted butter.
Step 8:: Spread the glaze over the cooled cookies and allow it to set before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Let the cookies cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Helpful Notes

Use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest for the best flavor. You can also add extra zest for a more intense citrusy kick.
Be sure to not overmix the dough to keep the cookies soft and tender.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Martha recommends adding a pinch of cardamom to the dough for a subtle spice that complements the citrus flavor beautifully.

Bright & Refreshing Citrus Treat

Soft & Citrusy Orange Cookies are the perfect way to enjoy the bright, tangy flavor of oranges in a soft, buttery cookie. The orange zest and juice add a fresh and lively flavor, while the light glaze gives each bite a sweet, citrusy finish. These cookies are ideal for citrus lovers and are perfect for enjoying with tea or as a light dessert.

Perfect for Sharing

These cookies are great for sharing at gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply as a treat to enjoy throughout the week. Their vibrant orange flavor and tender texture make them a hit with anyone who loves citrus desserts. They also make a lovely gift when packaged beautifully!

FAQs

Can I use lemon juice instead of orange juice?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice for a more tart flavor, though the cookies will have a slightly different taste.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before spreading it over the cookies.

How long will the cookies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Summary

Soft & Citrusy Orange Cookies are the perfect combination of tender, buttery cookie dough and refreshing citrus flavor. The fresh orange zest and juice in both the dough and the glaze make these cookies incredibly bright and flavorful. Topped with a sweet, tangy glaze, these cookies are soft and chewy with just the right amount of citrus zing. They’re ideal for serving with tea, enjoying as a light dessert, or adding to your holiday cookie tray.