Drift Recipes Creamsicle Orange Cookies: A Sweet and Tangy Citrus Delight

Creamsicle Orange Cookies are a refreshing twist on a classic cookie, combining the bright, citrusy flavor of orange with a soft, cake-like texture. With a hint of vanilla and a touch of orange zest, these cookies are reminiscent of the beloved creamsicle ice cream treat. Perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you’re craving a light, sweet cookie, these orange-flavored delights will brighten up your cookie jar!

Creamsicle Orange Cookies: A Sweet and Tangy Citrus Delight

Creamsicle Orange Cookies are a vibrant and delicious treat that will bring a burst of citrus flavor to your baking. With a delicate balance of fresh orange zest and a creamy, soft texture, these cookies have the essence of a creamsicle in every bite. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a party, or simply want to add a zesty twist to your usual cookie routine, these orange cookies are sure to be a hit. Easy to make and delightful to taste, they’ll satisfy your sweet tooth with a fresh citrus kick.

Ingredients

Butter: 1/2 cup, softened, to create a rich and tender cookie base.
Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness and a soft texture.
Egg: 1 large, for binding the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the sweetness and add depth of flavor.
Fresh orange zest: 2 tablespoons, for a fresh, tangy citrus aroma.
Fresh orange juice: 1 tablespoon, to infuse the cookies with a burst of orange flavor.
All-purpose flour: 2 cups, as the base of the cookie dough.
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, to help the cookies rise and achieve a light texture.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup, for dusting the cookies and adding a smooth finish (optional).

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Wet Ingredients:
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until fully combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Shape the Dough:
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake:
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delightful cookies with a glass of milk or enjoy them as a bright, citrusy treat any time of day. They’re perfect for gifting or sharing with friends and family.

These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor. With their soft texture and zesty aroma, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your baking rotation!