CREAMSICLE ORANGE COOKIES
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These Creamsicle Orange Cookies bring all the flavors of a classic creamsicle popsicle into soft, chewy cookie form. The bright, refreshing taste of orange paired with creamy vanilla creates a treat that will transport you to sunny days and nostalgic flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are a must-try for citrus lovers and dessert fans alike!
Growing up, creamsicles were always my favorite summer treat. So, when I came across the idea of turning that flavor into a cookie, I was beyond excited. The first time I made these Creamsicle Orange Cookies, my family was instantly hooked. My husband couldn’t get enough of the bright orange flavor mixed with the smooth vanilla, and my kids loved having them as a sweet afternoon snack. Now, these cookies are a family favorite, especially when we need a bit of sunshine in our lives, no matter the season!
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Why You’ll Love Creamsicle Orange Cookies
- Bright Citrus Flavor: Bursting with the sweet and tangy taste of fresh oranges.
- Soft & Chewy: These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right amount of chewiness.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick steps make these cookies a breeze to whip up.
- Nostalgic: They capture the nostalgic flavor of a creamsicle, but in cookie form!
Ingredients Notes For Creamsicle Orange Cookies
- Orange Zest & Juice: Fresh orange zest and juice give these cookies their bright, citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds the creamy note reminiscent of the classic creamsicle flavor.
- Butter: Gives the cookies their rich, buttery base and soft texture.
- Orange Food Coloring (optional): For that signature creamsicle look, you can add a few drops of orange food coloring.
Recipe Steps For Creamsicle Orange Cookies
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of sugar, and the zest of 1 large orange until light and fluffy. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Step 3: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. If desired, add a few drops of orange food coloring to give the cookies a creamsicle look.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with your hand.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months and bake them straight from the freezer—just add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Variations & Substitutions
- Cream Cheese Frosting Drizzle: Add a simple cream cheese frosting drizzle over the cookies for an extra creamy bite.
- Chocolate Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted white chocolate for an indulgent twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
CREAMSICLE ORANGE COOKIES
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest about 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Creamsicle Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Orange zest for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookies:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Shape and Bake: After chilling, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Creamsicle Frosting:
- Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Stir in the orange juice and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, frost them with the creamsicle frosting.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle a little orange zest on top of the frosted cookies for added flavor and decoration.
