Are you ready to elevate your cookie game with a burst of citrusy delight? These Small Batch Soft Orange Cookies are not just any ordinary treat; they are a sweet escape that will transport your taste buds to a sunny orchard with every bite! Perfectly soft, subtly sweet, and infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh oranges, this recipe is designed for those moments when you crave a little indulgence without the commitment of a large batch. In just 22 minutes, you can have a dozen of these delightful cookies ready to impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a batch that will leave everyone asking for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 22 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg yolk to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until fully incorporated. Mix in the fresh orange zest and orange juice.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple orange glaze for extra flavor.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh orange zest and juice. The natural oils in the zest will enhance the cookie's citrusy aroma and taste.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
- Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly golden; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Add a Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, consider drizzling a simple orange glaze over the cooled cookies. Just mix powdered sugar with a bit of orange juice until you reach your desired consistency.
- Storage: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They also freeze well—just ensure they are well-wrapped!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg
