Creamsicle 🍊 Orange Cookies
These soft and citrusy cookies are inspired by the classic creamsicle ice cream treat! A delicious blend of orange and cream flavor in every bite. 🍪🍊
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp fresh orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer or a whisk.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
6. Add the White Chocolate Chips (Optional):
- If using white chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough using a spatula.
7. Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat evenly. Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are slightly golden. The centers will still look soft but will firm up as they cool.
9. Cool:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Toppings:
- Orange Glaze: For an extra citrusy burst, drizzle a simple orange glaze on top of the cookies. Mix powdered sugar with a little orange juice and drizzle over the cooled cookies.
- Sprinkles: Add a few colorful sprinkles to the glaze for a festive touch!
Tips:
- Orange Zest: Fresh orange zest is key to giving these cookies that true, bright, citrus flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
- Variation: If you like, you can swap out the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a contrast in flavor.
These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the tangy sweetness of orange with a hint of creamy goodness. They’re light, zesty, and full of nostalgic flavors! 🍊🍪
