Description
These Creamsicle Orange Cookies combine the bright, zesty flavor of fresh orange zest and juice with the sweet, creamy touch of white chocolate chips. Soft and chewy with a hint of citrus, they offer a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
- 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Line Baking Sheets: Prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This aerates the batter for a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined, adding moisture and flavor.
- Add the Orange Flavor: Mix in the fresh orange zest and orange juice until evenly incorporated, giving the cookies their signature citrus tang.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cookies.
- Fold in White Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the white chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set but still soft.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they hold their shape and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh orange zest and juice for the best citrus flavor; bottled juice may alter the taste.
- Do not overmix once the flour is added to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For an extra citrusy touch, consider adding a pinch of orange extract if desired.
- If white chocolate chips are unavailable, white chocolate chunks or chopped white chocolate bars can be used.
