Name: Soft and Chewy Orange Sugar Cookies to Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened (provides richness and contributes to a tender texture); 1 cup sugar (adds sweetness); 0.5 teaspoon salt (enhances sweetness); 1 large egg, room temperature (binds the dough); 4 teaspoons grated orange zest (delivers a strong orange flavor); 0.33 cup orange juice (adds moisture); 1.5 teaspoons lemon extract (complements the orange flavor); 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (provides structure); 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (essential for glaze); 2 tablespoons 2% milk (adjusts icing consistency); 3 drops orange food coloring (optional for color)

“Remember the last time you savored a cookie that felt like sunshine? These Perfectly Soft Orange Sugar Cookies are designed to evoke that very feeling. Bursting with the vibrant essence of fresh oranges, these cookies are not only a joyful delight for your taste buds but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with a sweet orange glaze sets the stage for a treat that’s perfect for everything from cozy afternoons to festive gatherings. Whether you’re tired of fast food or just looking to fill your home with the aroma of homemade goodness, these cookies will check all the boxes. Ready to brighten your day with a hint of citrus magic?”

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Make?

Irresistible Softness: The moment you bite into one of these Perfectly Soft Orange Sugar Cookies, you’ll be welcomed by a melt-in-your-mouth texture that can only be described as bliss.

Bursting with Flavor: Infused with fresh orange zest and juice, each cookie is a vibrant explosion of citrus, perfect for those seeking a taste of sunshine.

Easy and Quick: With a straightforward recipe, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results in no time—perfect for spontaneous baking sessions!

Versatile Treat: Whether served at tea time or packaged as delightful gifts, these cookies adapt beautifully to any occasion.

Make-Ahead Option: Bake extra dough and freeze it for future sweet cravings, just like with my Chocolate Oat Cookies!

Elevate your baking game and bring these delicious cookies to life today!

Orange Sugar Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready for a citrusy treat!

For the Cookie Dough

1 cup butter, softened – This ingredient provides richness and contributes to a tender texture.
1 cup sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tangy citrus flavors perfectly.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors for a delightful bite.
1 large egg, room temperature – Binds the dough together, helping achieve that soft, chewy texture.
4 teaspoons grated orange zest – Delivers a strong, aromatic orange flavor that brightens the cookie.
⅓ cup orange juice – Adds moisture and a bright, tangy flavor for a refreshing taste.
1½ teaspoons lemon extract – Complements the orange flavor and enhances the overall brightness.
2½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure needed for the cookies to hold their shape.

For the Icing

1 cup confectioners’ sugar – Essential for creating that sweet, smooth glaze on top.
2 tablespoons 2% milk – Adjusts the icing consistency for ease of application.
3 drops orange food coloring (optional) – Use this for a sunny hue to the icing, adding a fun flair!

Dive into making your own Orange Sugar Cookies and fill your home with the wonderful fragrance of fresh citrus!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Perfectly Soft Orange Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. Beat in 1 large egg, followed by 4 teaspoons of grated orange zest, ⅓ cup of orange juice, and 1½ teaspoons of lemon extract. Gradually mix in 2½ cups of all-purpose flour until just incorporated. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into disks, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough is firm, lightly flour a clean surface and roll each disk to a thickness of ¼ inch. Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes, ensuring you work quickly to maintain the dough’s cool temperature. Place the shaped cookies on greased baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading while baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Carefully slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be light golden brown around the edges while the centers remain soft. Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Icing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and, if desired, 3 drops of orange food coloring until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary; it should be pourable but not too thin. Set the icing aside for a moment while you prepare to decorate the cookies.

Step 5: Decorate the Cookies
Once the cookies have completely cooled, drizzle or spread the orange icing over the tops of the Perfectly Soft Orange Sugar Cookies. Allow the icing to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until it hardens a bit. This delightful finishing touch not only adds a burst of sweetness but also enhances the cookies’ sunny appearance.

Orange Sugar Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Orange Sugar Cookies to match your flavor preferences and dietary needs—where deliciousness is only a tweak away!

Lemon Twist: Substitute lemon zest and juice for orange for a bright, tangy flavor shift. Each bite will offer a refreshing zing that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea.
Gluten-Free Delight: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously light version that everyone can enjoy. The same airy texture awaits!
Coconut Cream: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flair that compliments the citrus beautifully. You’ll find this addition brings an extra chewiness that’s simply divine.
Spice it Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the flour mixture for a warm spice that deepens the flavor profile. This twist creates an inviting aroma while baking!
Shortbread Variation: For a richer cookie, reduce the orange juice to ¼ cup and add ¼ cup of powdered sugar to the dough. These cookies will be firmer and perfect for dunking!
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the iced cookies for an indulgent touch that balances the citrus sweetness. Think of it as a bright and decadent pairing!
Reduced Sugar: Use only ½ cup of sugar instead of a full cup for a lighter treat. The orange zest will still provide that delightful sweetness without overdoing it!
Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter for coconut oil and use plant-based milk in the icing for equally delightful cookies. They stay soft, with a lovely tropical twist.

With these variations, there’s no turning back to fast food! Let your creativity shine as you craft your perfect batch of Orange Sugar Cookies—just like that, you’re an expert home-chef ready to impress!

Storage Tips for Orange Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you live in a humid climate, you can store cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Cookie Dough: You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough! Shape it into disks or logs, wrap in plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw before baking.

Expert Tips for Perfectly Soft Orange Sugar Cookies

Creaming is Essential: Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy; this helps create a tender cookie texture and incorporates air.
Chill, Don’t Skimp: Chilling the dough is crucial! It prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they maintain their shape and softness.
Watch Your Bake Time: Avoid overbaking. Pull the cookies out when edges are golden and the centers look soft. They’ll firm up as they cool!
Icing Consistency Matters: When making the icing, achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If too thick, add a tiny bit more milk until just right!
Storage Tips: Store your finished Orange Sugar Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can even freeze leftover dough for quick baking later!

What to Serve with Perfectly Soft & Chewy Orange Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the delightful pairing of flavors and experiences to create a heartwarming dessert experience that brightens any occasion.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits enhances the cookie’s citrus notes, providing a refreshing contrast to their sweetness.
Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot notes in Earl Grey tea beautifully complement the orange flavors in the cookies, creating a soothing, aromatic indulgence.
Cream Cheese Icing: For an added twist, spread a layer of cream cheese icing on top to introduce a rich, creamy texture that balances the cookies’ sweetness.
Minted Lemonade: A cool, zesty lemonade with a hint of mint is the ultimate refresher—its tartness works wonders alongside the soft sweetness of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop on the side, marrying the warm, chewy cookie with cold, creamy ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast.
Coffee: A hot cup of coffee, whether dark or flavored, serves as a perfect counterpart, enhancing the orange flavors with its rich, roasted notes.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: This decadent treat offers a contrast in texture while playing off the citrus in the cookies, making for an elegant sweet ending.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a creamy softness that compliments the cookies and balances their citrus brightness.

Elevate your dessert table with these delightful pairings, and turn any gathering into a cherished memory filled with love and homemade goodness.

Make Ahead Options

These Perfectly Soft Orange Sugar Cookies are fantastic for those busy days when you still want a sweet treat without the last-minute baking rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps: cream the butter and sugar, mix in the egg, zest, juice, and extract, then add the flour. Once the dough is formed, divide it into disks, wrap them tightly in plastic, and refrigerate. For even longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw the dough overnight in the fridge, roll it out, and bake as directed for cookies that are just as delicious as if you made them fresh!

Perfectly Soft Orange Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe oranges for zest and juice?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges, look for ones that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a smooth skin. Avoid any with dark spots or bruises. A vibrant color usually indicates ripeness, and if the orange has a slightly sweet fragrance, it’s a good sign that the fruit is flavorful.

How should I store my baked Orange Sugar Cookies?
Store your finished Orange Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help retain their softness and delicious flavor. If you’re in a humid environment, it’s wise to refrigerate them in a sealed container where they can last up to a week without drying out.

Can I freeze Orange Sugar Cookies?
Yes, you can! For freezing, place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour first so they don’t stick together. Afterwards, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours!

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough feels overly sticky, try chilling it longer in the refrigerator. This helps solidify the butter and makes it easier to handle. You can also sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and your rolling pin while shaping the cookies. Just be cautious not to add too much, as this can change the texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! For those with egg allergies, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg: mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. To address dairy concerns, use a plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for the icing. Always check your ingredients for potential allergens, especially for the confectioners’ sugar, as some brands may add starches or other allergens.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You sure can! If you want, make the dough ahead of time. After mixing and shaping it into disks, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. Enjoy those fresh-baked cookies!