Name: Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 3 h 7 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups (330g) all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 2 tbsp fresh orange zest; ¼ cup (60ml) fresh orange juice; 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice; 1 tsp fresh orange zest (optional); Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you love bursting flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textures, you are absolutely going to adore this Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a beautiful symphony of fresh orange zest and juice mingled with a tender buttery dough that stays soft long after baking. The zesty glaze on top adds a cheerful, tangy finish that will brighten your afternoon tea or make any day feel special. It’s a recipe that manages to be refreshingly light yet satisfyingly indulgent, perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large clear glass mixing bowl sits on top of a soft, wrinkled gray cloth, both placed on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl, there is a small pile of fine white sugar with bright orange zest sprinkled over the top. The sugar forms a smooth, rounded layer covering the bottom of the bowl, while the orange zest adds a rough, textured layer mostly centered within the sugar. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is a joyful start because each one is straightforward and plays a key role in creating that irresistible texture and bright citrus flavor. From the butter that lends richness to the fresh orange zest and juice that bring that vibrant brightness, every ingredient matters.

All-purpose flour (2 ¾ cups / 330g): Provides structure and a soft crumb to your cookies.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Adds a gentle lift ensuring lightness.
Salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g, softened): Delivers richness and tenderness.
Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups / 300g): Sweetens while helping to create a lovely cookie texture.
Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and contribute to a tender bite.
Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): Lends warm, comforting undertones.
Fresh orange zest (2 tbsp): Bursting with citrus oils that brighten the whole cookie.
Fresh orange juice (¼ cup / 60ml): Adds moisture and an unmistakable tangy freshness.
Powdered sugar (2 cups / 240g) for glaze: Creates a smooth, sweet coating.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted for glaze): Gives the glaze a luscious shine.
Fresh orange juice (2-3 tbsp for glaze): Balances sweetness and intensifies citrus flavor.
Fresh orange zest (1 tsp, optional for glaze): Adds a pretty fleck of color and extra zing.
Pinch of salt (for glaze): Enhances the glaze’s flavor complexity.

How to Make Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together your flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, giving you a perfectly balanced dough from the get-go.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl to mix everything evenly.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Break in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The eggs bring structure while keeping the cookies tender. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest for fragrance and that unmistakable citrus charm.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With your mixer on low, slowly add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything comes together—overmixing can toughen the dough, and we want soft, delicate cookies.

Step 5: Add Orange Juice

Pour in the fresh orange juice and mix on low speed for about 10 to 15 seconds until fully incorporated. This little splash of juice makes the dough wonderfully soft and infuses the cookies with bright, juicy flavor.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Transfer your dough to a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If you can wait 3 to 4 hours or even overnight, the flavors will deepen and the dough will firm up nicely, making it easier to handle.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prevents sticking and allows for an even bake.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake Cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls roughly 1.5 tablespoons each and place them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake one tray at a time for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges just start turning golden but the centers remain soft.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Let your cookies rest on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to set before transferring them gently to a wire rack to cool completely. This gentle cooling helps maintain their wonderful soft texture.

Step 10: Prepare Zesty Orange Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add in fresh orange juice until you reach a smooth, pourable glaze. Stir in some extra orange zest if you want a glow and intensified citrus kick.

Step 11: Glaze and Set

Once your cookies are fully cooled, dip their tops into the glaze or drizzle it artistically over each one. Place them on a wire rack with parchment underneath to catch drips and let the glaze set at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes until no longer sticky.

How to Serve Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe

A stack of five round, soft cookies sits on a white marbled surface, each cookie light golden brown with a slightly cracked texture on the edges. Between each cookie is a thin layer of pale creamy icing that drips slightly over the sides. The top cookie is split in half, revealing a moist, crumbly interior, and is covered with a bright, glossy layer of yellow jelly or marmalade, which also spreads unevenly over the icing. Small bits of yellow zest are scattered on top, adding texture and a pop of color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little finely chopped candied orange peel, or a few tiny edible flowers, on top of the glaze to elevate the presentation and add an extra wow factor. The citrus notes shine beautifully with subtle garnishes that echo those fresh flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea or a creamy latte to complement their citrusy sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a small bowl of fresh berries also creates a fresh, elegant dessert experience perfect for sharing.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe on a pretty platter with alternating layers of fresh mint leaves and thin orange slices. For a party, serve them with a build-your-own tea station featuring citrus-infused water and herbal teas to make your gathering unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 or 4 days. Keep them away from heat or moisture so they maintain their characteristic softness and fresh citrus flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough before baking by shaping it into balls and freezing on a parchment-lined tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Baked cookies can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to a month, just thaw at room temperature before glazing.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them too soft or soggy. The gentle oven warmth brings back that freshly baked feel wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange?

Absolutely! While this Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe shines with fresh orange zest and juice, you can experiment with lemon or grapefruit zest and juice for a delightful variation. Keep the same quantities for best results.

What if I don’t have fresh orange juice?

Fresh juice is key for the brightness here, but if unavailable, use high-quality bottled orange juice without added sugar. Avoid concentrates, as they can alter texture and sweetness.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling helps the butter solidify, making the dough easier to handle and preventing cookies from spreading too much. It also allows the flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing that soft citrus taste.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and eggs with flaxseed or chia gel. Keep in mind the texture will be slightly different, but you’ll still enjoy the citrusy goodness.

How do I know when the glaze is set?

The glaze is set when it’s no longer sticky to the touch and has a matte finish. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature depending on humidity. Don’t rush – letting it fully set gives a beautiful finish!

Final Thoughts

This Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite for good reason. It’s simple to prepare yet impressively flavorful, with a soft texture that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Give it a try next time you want a cookie that’s a little different, a little special, and all-around delightful. You’re going to fall in love with these sunny bites, just like I have!