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Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies Recipe

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4.2 from 12 reviews

These Soft Citrusy Orange Cookies are delightfully tender with a refreshing burst of fresh orange zest and juice, enhanced by a sweet, zesty orange glaze. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, these cookies offer a soft, chewy texture with a delicate citrus aroma, ideal for an uplifting dessert or a special treat with tea or coffee.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 7 minutes
  • Yield: 30 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 ¾ cups (330g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 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

Glaze Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside for later incorporation.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter on medium speed for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 3-5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
  3. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in pure vanilla extract and fresh orange zest until just combined, ensuring the batter is fragrant and evenly flavored.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
  5. Add Orange Juice: Pour in the fresh orange juice and mix on low speed for 10-15 seconds until fully incorporated. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky at this stage.
  6. Chill the Dough: Transfer the dough to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 3-4 hours or overnight, to firm up the dough and allow flavors to meld.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
  8. Scoop and Bake Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form rounded balls of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake one sheet at a time for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to keep cookies tender.
  9. Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly without becoming soggy.
  10. Prepare Zesty Orange Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, melted unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Add fresh orange juice gradually while whisking until the glaze is smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency with additional juice or powdered sugar as needed. Optionally fold in fresh orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
  11. Glaze and Set: Once cookies are fully cooled, dip or drizzle the glaze over the tops. Place on a wire rack over parchment paper to catch any drips. Let the glaze set at room temperature for 15-30 minutes until no longer sticky and fully firm.
  12. Store: Store the glazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh and soft for up to 3-4 days. Enjoy as a delightful citrus treat!

Notes

  • Refrigerating the dough is essential to prevent spreading and to enhance the citrus flavor integration.
  • Do not overbake the cookies; they should be soft in the center when removed from the oven.
  • Adjust the glaze consistency carefully to avoid it being too runny or too thick.
  • Cookies can be stored at room temperature but are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness.
  • For a stronger orange flavor, add extra zest to the dough or the glaze as preferred.

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/soft-citrusy-orange-cookies-recipe/