Orange Cream Cookies

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugars – In a separate bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add wet ingredients – Mix in the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Combine – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated.
  6. 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.
  7. 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
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Orange Cream Cookies

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  • Author: clara
  • 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

Units Scale

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  3. Mix in egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream, until just combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

  1. Scoop 1 ½ tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  2. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
  3. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Add powdered sugar, orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest, beating until fluffy.

Step 4: Frost & Serve

  1. Spread or pipe the frosting onto cooled cookies.
  2. Garnish with extra orange zest for a vibrant finish.
  3. 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.

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