Creamsicle Orange Cookies
Creamsicle Orange Cookies are soft, chewy cookies that perfectly capture the nostalgic flavors of a classic creamsicle. Combining vibrant orange zest and juice with creamy vanilla and rich butter, these cookies offer a zesty, tangy, and sweet treat that melts in your mouth. Ideal for citrus lovers and those seeking a refreshing twist on traditional cookies, they are simple to prepare and versatile for any occasion.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour blend is used)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature (or coconut oil for vegan option)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (or flaxseed egg for vegan)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 fresh oranges
- 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Optional Toppings and Variations
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- White or dark chocolate chips (optional for double chocolate twist)
- Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional for spiced version)
- Orange glaze: powdered sugar mixed with orange juice for drizzling
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by zesting fresh oranges and measuring all ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, creating the perfect base for soft cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, fresh orange zest, and orange juice. The juice adds a fresh burst of flavor while the zest contributes vibrant aroma.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to keep the dough tender and avoid toughness.
- Shape and Bake: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and (Optional) Dust: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. For a polished touch, sprinkle with powdered sugar once fully cooled or drizzle with orange glaze.
Notes
- Use freshly grated orange zest and juice rather than bottled for the best citrus flavor.
- Do not overmix the dough; stir just until combined to keep cookies soft.
- Chill the dough briefly to help cookies hold their shape and enhance flavor.
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and lighter dough texture.
- Slightly underbake the cookies for a softer, chewy center.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Creamsicle cookies, orange cookies, citrus cookies, soft chewy cookies, gluten-free cookies, vegan option cookies