Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe
If you find yourself craving something bright, zesty, and utterly delightful, then this Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. These cookies perfectly balance a tender crumb with vibrant citrus notes, all topped off with a sweet, tangy glaze that makes each bite sing. Sharing them feels like gifting sunshine on a plate, ideal for cozy afternoons, festive gatherings, or just whenever you want a burst of orange-flavored happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe emphasizes fresh flavors and the right textures. Each component is chosen carefully: the flour builds the perfect crumb, butter brings richness, and fresh orange juice and zest flood the cookies with authentic citrus sparkle. Get ready to see how these straightforward staples come together to make magic!
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for soft yet sturdy cookies.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a light texture.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to ensure perfect lift.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds moisture and richness for tender bites.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough while contributing to a slight crisp edge.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds to the cookie’s chewiness.
- 1 tbsp orange zest: Delivers concentrated citrus aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice: Infuses juicy, fresh orange essence into the dough.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens flavor, balancing the bright citrus notes.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates the sweet, smooth orange glaze topping.
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (for glaze): Adds zing and thins the glaze to just the right consistency.
How to Make Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This combination creates the perfect base that’ll give your cookies the right texture and rise.
Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar
Now, shift your attention to a large mixing bowl. Cream the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and full of airiness. This step is key to developing that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness in your cookies.
Step 3: Adding the Citrus and Binding Ingredients
Beat in the egg, freshly grated orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. Incorporating the zest and juice here maximizes the dispersal of bright and tangy flavors that will make these cookies shine. Stir until everything is just combined, creating a fragrant orange-infused batter.
Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into your wet batter, folding gently until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix because you want to maintain a tender crumb rather than a dense cookie. The soft dough you end up with is the foundation of beautifully textured orange cookies.
Step 5: Shaping and Baking the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Pop them into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn a warm, golden hue. This perfectly controlled baking creates edges with a slight crispness while keeping the centers tender.
Step 6: Preparing and Applying the Orange Glaze
While your cookies cool on a rack, whisk together powdered sugar and an extra tablespoon of fresh orange juice to create a smooth glaze that’s both sweet and tangy. Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle or spoon the glaze generously over each one. Give it a few moments to set, and you’re ready to enjoy the ultimate citrus treat.
How to Serve Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your orange cookies even further, consider adding some vibrant garnishes. Freshly chopped candied orange peel or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios add a lovely contrast in texture and an extra pop of color. These little touches can make your cookies feel extra special, especially when sharing with guests.
Side Dishes
These cookies work wonderfully alongside a variety of beverages. Picture yourself enjoying them with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a bright, citrus-infused iced tea. For an indulgent treat, pair them with a rich, creamy cappuccino or even a cold glass of milk to balance the zesty sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress at a brunch or dessert table, consider arranging your orange cookies in a tiered display or on a rustic wooden board accented with whole oranges and sprigs of fresh mint. Wrapping a few in translucent parchment and tying with a bit of twine makes a charming gift that any foodie friend would adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These orange cookies stay fresh and delicious when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Be sure the glaze has fully set before stacking them to prevent sticking. Keeping them at room temperature preserves their soft texture and vibrant flavor brilliantly.
Freezing
You can freeze both baked cookies and dough! For baked cookies, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to three months. If freezing dough, scoop it into portions and freeze on a lined tray until firm, then store in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply thaw dough overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Reheating
To refresh texture and warm these cookies slightly, pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This revives their softness and intensifies the orange aroma without melting the glaze overcrowded. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cookies chewy or glaze runny.
FAQs
Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice and zest?
While orange extract can add flavor, fresh orange juice and zest provide a brighter, more natural citrus punch that really makes this Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe stand out. For best results, use fresh ingredients when possible.
Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind texture may vary slightly, but the orange flavor will still be delicious and fresh.
What if I don’t like the glaze too sweet?
You can easily adjust the glaze sweetness by reducing the powdered sugar or adding a bit more orange juice to thin it out and cut back on sweetness. This lets you customize the finishing touch perfectly to your taste.
Can these cookies be made vegan?
Yes, you can replace the butter with a vegan alternative and swap the egg for a flax egg or another binder like applesauce. The flavor remains bright and lovely, though texture may be a bit different.
How do I get the glaze so smooth and shiny?
Make sure to sift your powdered sugar before mixing with orange juice, then whisk thoroughly until smooth and lump-free. Applying the glaze to cooled cookies helps it set shiny and smooth instead of melting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about baking and sharing these Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe. They bring a little piece of sunshine into your kitchen and brighten up anyone’s day. Whether you’re making them for yourself, your loved ones, or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite. Dive in, enjoy each citrus-happy bite, and watch smiles blossom all around.
Print
Orange Cookies with Orange Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in these zesty Orange Cookies, featuring a soft and tender crumb infused with fresh orange zest and juice. Topped with a sweet orange glaze, these cookies offer a perfect balance of citrus brightness and sweetness, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to create a tender texture in the cookies.
- Add Wet Flavorings: Incorporate the egg, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until all ingredients are thoroughly combined to build the cookie’s flavor and moisture.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make cookies tough.
- Portion the Dough: Using a tablespoon, scoop dough portions and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating that the cookies are cooked through.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a small bowl until smooth to create a sweet glaze that complements the cookies.
- Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the tops evenly for added sweetness and decorative appeal.
- Set and Serve: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes until firm, then serve and enjoy the bright, citrus-infused flavor of these delightful orange cookies.
Notes
- Use fresh orange zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Do not overmix the dough to maintain cookie tenderness.
- Cookies should be fully cooled before glazing to prevent melting the glaze.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft.
- To make the glaze thicker, reduce the orange juice slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
