Hearty Orange Citrus Cookies

Twist on traditional cookies incorporating the zesty essence of fresh orange juice.

Orange Citrus Cookies are a citrus-infused delight, offering a burst of refreshing flavor in each bite. This unique twist on traditional cookies incorporates the zesty essence of fresh orange juice, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. The citrus notes add a bright, aromatic dimension to the cookie, enhancing the overall taste experience. These cookies are soft, chewy, and subtly fragrant, with the orange juice acting as a natural flavor enhancer. Whether enjoyed as a simple treat or paired with a cup of tea, orange citrus cookies bring a sunny, citrusy warmth that makes them a delightful and distinctive addition to any cookie exchange.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Frosting to frost or powdered sugar for dusting if desired

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients
    • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, lemon extract and orange zest. Mix until well combined.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Shape Cookies
    • Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look slightly soft.
  8. Cool
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Optional: Frost or Dust with Powdered Sugar:
    • If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

These Orange Citrus Cookies are full of citrusy brightness, making them a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy the wonderful citrus flavors in every bite!