Ingredients

Orange Cookies

170 grams (6.00 ounces) butter
200 grams (7.05 ounces) sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
50 milliliters (1.75 ounces) fresh orange juice
1 orange (zest)
420 grams (14.80 ounces) flour
Vanillin (to taste)
Sugar (for sprinkling, to taste)
Powdered sugar (for sprinkling, to taste)

Instructions

Step 1

These fragrant orange cookies resemble gingerbread with their amazing 'cracks' and sugary crust. They are delicious and tender; you simply have to try them!

Step 2

1. Gather your ingredients: 170 grams (6.00 ounces) butter, 200 grams (7.05 ounces) sugar, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 50 milliliters (1.75 ounces) fresh orange juice, zest from one orange, 420 grams (14.80 ounces) flour, vanillin to taste, sugar and powdered sugar for sprinkling.

Step 3

2. Whip the butter (at room temperature) with the sugar until it is light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is well incorporated before adding the next one. For a more vibrant orange color, feel free to add a bit of orange food dye. If you prefer, you can skip this step for a creamy color interspersed with zest.

Step 4

3. Rub the zest and squeeze the juice from the orange; add them to the butter-sugar mixture. Make sure to use only the outer layer of the zest, as the white part can be bitter.

Step 5

4. Sift together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of vanillin. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overwork the dough. For a more intense flavor, you can refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Step 6

5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and then roll each ball first in granulated sugar, followed by powdered sugar. Place the balls on a baking sheet and gently flatten them with your hand or a spatula. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size of your cookies. To ensure even baking, consider rotating your baking sheet halfway through the cooking time.

Step 7

6. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These cookies are best enjoyed once they've cooled down and the flavors have had time to meld together.

Step 8

7. For a variation, you can use tangerines instead of oranges, especially if they are sour. In this case, grate the zest from 2 to 3 tangerines. Enjoy your homemade cookies!

Servings

These aromatic orange cookies are versatile treats that can be served in a variety of delightful ways. For a festive touch, arrange them on a decorative platter and sprinkle with additional powdered sugar. They're perfect for holiday gatherings, providing a sweet and citrusy break from more traditional cookies.

If you're planning an afternoon tea, serve these cookies alongside a pot of fragrant Earl Grey or chamomile tea. The citrus notes of the cookies complement the soothing flavors of the tea, making for a perfect pairing.

Hosting a brunch? Pair these cookies with a fresh fruit salad and some whipped cream for a light and refreshing dessert. Or, for a more indulgent option, serve them with a dollop of orange-flavored cream cheese frosting.

For a delightful gift, place these cookies in a decorative tin or jar, lined with parchment paper and adorned with a festive ribbon. It’s a thoughtful and delicious way to spread some homemade cheer.

Equipment

Mixing Bowls

Use a set of mixing bowls in various sizes, preferably made of stainless steel for easy cleaning and durability.

Electric Mixer

An electric mixer is essential for whipping the butter and sugar to a fluffy consistency; a stand mixer or hand mixer will do.

Zester

A fine zester or microplane is perfect for getting the best zest from your oranges without the bitter white pith.

Baking Sheet

A non-stick or lightly greased baking sheet ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off cleanly.

Cooling Rack

Allow your cookies to cool properly on a cooling rack to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Accurate measurements are key to baking success; make sure you have a set of both cups and spoons.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure to sift the flour to avoid clumping and maintain a smooth dough consistency. Your cookies will still come out tender and delicious.

To make these cookies vegan, swap the butter with a plant-based buttery spread and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg, and let sit for a few minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency. This will ensure your cookies are still light and absolutely delightful.

Faq

  • Why did my cookies spread too much?

    This can happen if your dough is too warm. Try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.

  • How can I make my cookies more chewy?

    If you prefer chewier cookies, reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes. Baking for a shorter time helps retain moisture inside the cookies.

  • Can I replace the orange zest with another citrus fruit?

    Absolutely! Feel free to use lemon, lime, or even grapefruit zest for a unique twist on these cookies.

  • How do I store these cookies to keep them fresh?

    Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to a week.

  • Can I freeze the dough for later use?

    Yes, you can freeze the dough. Roll it into balls, place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

  • How can I ensure the cookies have the perfect "cracks"?

    Rolling the dough balls in both granulated sugar and powdered sugar before baking not only adds sweetness but also helps in forming those beautiful cracks as the cookies bake.

Nutrition facts

ORANGE COOKIES
Recipe Yield:24 cookies
Calories:Approximately 90 calories per cookie
Calories (Min - Max):80 - 100
Total Fat:4.5g
Saturated Fat:2.5g
Protein:1.3g
Total Carbohydrate:12.3g
Total Sugars:8g