Name: Orange Cream Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp orange zest (about 1 orange); 2 tbsp fresh orange juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup sour cream (for extra softness); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp fresh orange juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp orange zest (for extra flavor)

Jump to Recipe

These Orange Cream Cookies are a perfect balance of soft, citrusy cookies topped with a creamy, tangy frosting. The combination of fresh orange zest, orange juice, and a light, fluffy frosting makes these cookies a refreshing treat that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a birthday, or simply craving something sweet with a burst of citrus flavor, these cookies are sure to satisfy.

The dough is rich with a hint of orange, and the sour cream adds an extra layer of softness, making each bite melt in your mouth. The orange cream cheese frosting on top takes these cookies to the next level, with its smooth and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cookie base. These cookies are simple to make and always impress with their vibrant color and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love Orange Cream Cookies

1. Refreshing Citrus Flavor

The combination of fresh orange juice and zest gives these cookies a zesty, refreshing flavor that’s light yet satisfying.

2. Soft and Tender Texture

Thanks to the addition of sour cream in the dough, these cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, with the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family gathering, holiday party, or just an afternoon snack, these cookies are versatile enough for any occasion.

Orange Cream Cookies, orange, cream cheese, cookies, citrus, dessert

4. Creamy Frosting

The tangy orange cream cheese frosting adds the perfect finishing touch, making these cookies even more irresistible.

5. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies are easy to bake and perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Large egg
Orange zest (about 1 orange)
Fresh orange juice
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Sour cream (for extra softness)

For the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting:

Cream cheese (softened)
Unsalted butter (softened)
Powdered sugar
Fresh orange juice
Vanilla extract
Orange zest (for extra flavor)

Variations

Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the butter with dairy-free butter and use a non-dairy cream cheese alternative for the frosting.
Add Nuts: For added texture, consider folding chopped walnuts or pistachios into the dough.
Use Different Citrus: If you prefer a different citrus flavor, you can substitute lemon or lime zest and juice for a refreshing variation.
Add a Touch of Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or ginger can be added to the cookie dough for a subtle warming flavor that pairs nicely with the orange.

How to Make Orange Cream Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Stir in the sour cream until the dough is smooth and soft.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingers.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should be soft in the center. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the orange cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 5: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous amount of orange cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie using a knife or an offset spatula.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes before serving, or store the cookies in an airtight container. Enjoy the cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a delicious treat.

Tips for Making Orange Cream Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before using them to ensure smooth and easy mixing.
Chill the Dough (Optional): If you prefer thicker cookies, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape better.
Don’t Overbake: These cookies should remain soft, so be sure to watch them closely while baking. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
Frosting Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more orange juice. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it up.

How to Serve

These cookies are great on their own, but they can also be served with a cup of tea, coffee, or milk. They make a delightful dessert for a brunch gathering, afternoon tea, or as a treat for a special occasion. You can also display them on a platter with fresh orange slices for a more festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If the cookies have been frosted, it’s best to refrigerate them to keep the frosting fresh.

Freezing

To freeze the cookies, bake and cool them completely. Freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cookies and frost them with fresh orange cream cheese frosting.

Reheating

If you’d like to warm up the cookies, heat them in the microwave for a few seconds, but be sure to enjoy them soon after reheating as the frosting will soften.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without frosting?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the frosting adds a special creamy touch. You can also drizzle a little orange glaze over them if you prefer something lighter than frosting.

2. Can I substitute the sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or even buttermilk for a similar texture and tang.

3. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

While fresh orange juice is preferred for its bright flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

4. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

5. How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

Ensure that the butter and cream cheese are both at room temperature when making the frosting. If the frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it.

6. Can I use a hand mixer to make the frosting?

Yes, a hand mixer works just fine for making the frosting. Just be sure to beat the cream cheese and butter until they are smooth and fluffy before adding the powdered sugar.

7. How long should I bake the cookies?

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center should remain soft.

8. How do I make the cookies even?

Using a cookie scoop ensures each cookie is the same size and bakes evenly. You can also roll the dough into uniform balls with your hands.

9. Can I add chocolate to these cookies?

While the citrus flavor is the star of these cookies, you can add chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a fun twist.

10. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough or cookies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Frost them just before serving.

Conclusion

Orange Cream Cookies are the perfect combination of citrusy sweetness and creamy richness, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you enjoy them for a special occasion or just want to brighten your day with a burst of orange flavor, these cookies will hit the spot. With their soft, tender texture and flavorful orange cream cheese frosting, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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