Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nostalgic Flavor: The blend of fresh orange zest and white chocolate chips mimics the beloved creamsicle taste.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: The use of butter and brown sugar ensures a tender and moist cookie.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as an everyday sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
- 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Add the Orange Flavor:
- Mix in the orange zest and fresh orange juice until incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Variations
- Citrus Twist: Substitute the orange zest and juice with lemon or lime for a different citrus flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped macadamia nuts or almonds for added crunch.
- Glaze Drizzle: Mix powdered sugar with a bit of orange juice to create a glaze, and drizzle over cooled cookies for extra sweetness.
- Dark Chocolate: Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor contrast.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
How can I enhance the orange flavor in these cookies?
To intensify the orange flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange extract in addition to the zest and juice.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can substitute margarine for butter, the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Butter provides a richer taste and better consistency.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?
This recipe doesn’t require chilling the dough. However, if you find the dough too soft or if your kitchen is warm, chilling for 15-20 minutes can help prevent spreading.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If chilled, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.
What type of white chocolate chips should I use?
Use high-quality white chocolate chips or chunks for the best flavor. Brands like Ghirardelli or Guittard are recommended.
Can I add food coloring to make the cookies more orange?
If you desire a more vibrant orange hue, you can add a few drops of orange food coloring to the dough when mixing in the zest and juice.
How do I prevent the cookies from becoming too flat?
Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough. If the dough seems too soft, a brief chill in the refrigerator can help maintain the cookie’s shape during baking.
Are there gluten-free alternatives for this recipe?
To make these
Creamsicle Orange Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor, combining fresh orange zest, creamy white chocolate, and vanilla for a nostalgic creamsicle taste. Perfect for parties, holidays, or everyday indulgence!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
- 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter & Sugars: Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, followed by orange zest and juice.
- Combine & Fold: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in white chocolate chips.
- Shape & Bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool & Serve: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of orange extract for a stronger citrus taste.
- Chilling Tip: If dough is too soft, chill for 15-20 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
