Get ready to transform your holiday baking game with these irresistible Orange Christmas Sugar Cookies that will make your kitchen smell like a festive winter wonderland! Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, buttery cookie bursting with bright citrusy notes that dance on your taste buds, bringing a refreshing twist to traditional holiday treats. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious novice, these cookies are about to become your new seasonal obsession that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients and equipment: Take butter out of the refrigerator to soften at room temperature. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and maintains the cookie's shape during baking.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should appear slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or decorate with orange-flavored icing for a festive touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy within 2-3 days of baking.
Tips
- • Room temperature ingredients are key: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cookie texture. • Don't skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough helps prevent cookies from spreading too much and maintains their beautiful shape. • Zest carefully: Use only the bright orange part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. • Use a light hand when mixing dry ingredients to keep cookies tender - overmixing can lead to tough cookies. • For consistent cookie sizes, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough. • Watch your baking time closely - golden edges with slightly soft centers are the perfect doneness. • Let cookies cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 127kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
