Why You’ll Love Orange Cookies Recipe

I like this recipe because the cookies are tender and rich without being heavy. I enjoy how the orange flavor is noticeable but not overpowering, making these cookies great for any occasion. They’re easy to make, bake quickly, and look beautiful once iced.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the Orange Cookies
▢1 cup unsalted butter,, at room temperature
▢¾ cup granulated sugar
▢2 large egg yolks,, at room temperature
▢1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
▢2½ cups all-purpose flour
▢1 teaspoon baking powder
▢1 tablespoon orange zest
▢½ cup fresh orange juice
▢½ teaspoon sea salt

For the Icing:
▢1 cup confectioners sugar
▢3 tablespoon fresh orange juice
▢2 teaspoon orange zest
▢1 tablespoon unsalted butter,, at room temperature
▢Optional – 2 tablespoons cream cheese for a creamier texture

Directions

I begin by preheating the oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, I cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
I reduce the mixer speed and add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
I add the orange juice and zest and mix just until combined.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt.
I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix with a spoon until a dough forms.
I roll the dough into 1-inch balls, place them on the baking sheet, and gently flatten each one.
I bake the cookies for 10 to 11 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden. I let them cool briefly on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make the icing, I mix together the confectioners sugar, orange juice, orange zest, butter, and cream cheese if using, until smooth.
I spread the icing over the cooled cookies and let it set for about 30 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

I usually get about 24 cookies from this recipe. Prep time takes around 20 minutes, baking time is about 10 minutes, and the total time comes to roughly 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a drop of orange food coloring to the icing for a soft pastel look. When I want a stronger citrus flavor, I increase the orange zest slightly. I also enjoy skipping the icing and dusting the cookies with powdered sugar for a simpler version.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If they’re iced, I separate layers with parchment paper to keep them neat. I don’t reheat them since they’re best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

I can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Do I need fresh orange juice?

I prefer fresh juice for the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.

Can I freeze these cookies?

I freeze the un-iced cookies and add the icing after thawing.

Why use egg yolks only?

I find yolks make the cookies richer and more tender.

Can I skip the icing?

I sometimes skip it when I want a lighter, less sweet cookie.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

I look for lightly golden bottoms while the tops stay pale.

Can I use salted butter?

I can, but I reduce or skip the added salt.

Does the icing harden completely?

It sets nicely but stays slightly soft, which I like.

Can I double the recipe?

I double it often for parties, and it works perfectly.

What occasions are these cookies good for?

I love serving them at showers, holidays, or casual gatherings.

Conclusion

I keep these Orange Cookies in my baking rotation because they’re simple, elegant, and full of fresh citrus flavor. With their soft texture and sweet icing, they’re always a hit and never last long once served.