Orange cream cookies are a delightful treat combining the zesty freshness of oranges with the creamy sweetness of vanilla. These soft and chewy cookies have a bright citrus flavor, making them a perfect snack for any time of the year. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring a burst of sunshine to your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing flavor – The combination of orange and vanilla creates a nostalgic creamsicle-like taste.
- Soft and chewy texture – These cookies are light, fluffy, and melt in your mouth.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for any occasion – Whether for a party, afternoon snack, or holiday treat, these cookies fit every occasion.
- Customizable – You can add mix-ins like white chocolate chips or a drizzle of icing to enhance their flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Egg
- Orange zest
- Orange juice
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy cream
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugars – In a separate bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add wet ingredients – Mix in the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated.
- Scoop and bake – Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and enjoy – Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 24 cookies
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 12 minutes
- Total time: 27 minutes
Variations
- Add white chocolate chips for an extra sweet touch.
- Drizzle with orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.
- Make them dairy-free by substituting plant-based butter and cream.
- Use almond or coconut extract for a unique flavor twist.
- Make sandwich cookies by spreading a vanilla or cream cheese filling between two cookies.
Storage/Reheating
- Room temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds to restore softness.
FAQs
How do I make these cookies extra soft?
Use room-temperature butter and avoid overbaking. Removing the cookies from the oven when slightly underdone helps keep them soft.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh orange juice provides the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I add frosting to these cookies?
Yes! A light orange-flavored glaze or vanilla buttercream frosting works great.
What’s the best way to zest an orange?
Use a microplane grater or fine zester, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling is optional but can help enhance the flavor and prevent spreading.
Can I use orange extract instead of zest?
Yes, but zest gives a fresher taste. If using extract, start with ½ teaspoon and adjust as needed.
What can I serve these cookies with?
They pair well with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Butter gives a richer flavor.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
Conclusion
Orange cream cookies are the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and creamy sweetness. They are simple to make, wonderfully soft, and a great treat for any occasion. Try out different variations and enjoy these delightful cookies with family and friends.
Print
Orange Cream Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Orange Cream Cookies are soft, citrusy, and topped with a luscious orange cream cheese frosting! Inspired by the classic creamsicle flavor, these cookies are bursting with fresh orange zest and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for spring, summer, or whenever you’re craving a bright, refreshing treat!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp orange zest (about 1 orange)
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for extra softness)
For the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange zest (for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Mix in egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream, until just combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cookies
- Scoop 1 ½ tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest, beating until fluffy.
Step 4: Frost & Serve
- Spread or pipe the frosting onto cooled cookies.
- Garnish with extra orange zest for a vibrant finish.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Extra Orange Flavor: Add ½ tsp orange extract to the dough or frosting.
- Make it Lighter: Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months, then frost after thawing.