Description

These Orange Sugar Cookies combine a zesty citrus flavor with a soft, tender texture. Enhanced with fresh orange zest and juice, plus a hint of lemon extract, these delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion. Finished with a sweet, smooth orange-flavored icing, they offer a refreshing twist on a classic treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, room temperature
4 teaspoons grated orange zest
1/3 cup orange juice
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Icing

1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons 2% milk
3 drops orange food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Make the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and salt until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, beat in the egg, grated orange zest, orange juice, and lemon extract until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure tender cookies.
Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a disk, wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm enough to roll out.
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour a clean surface for rolling the dough.
Roll and Cut Cookies: On the floured surface, roll each chilled dough disk to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use a floured 2 1/2-inch cookie cutter to cut out cookie shapes.
Bake the Cookies: Place the cut cookies about 1 inch apart on greased baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn light brown.
Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them onto wire racks. Allow them to cool completely before icing.
Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar, 2% milk, and orange food coloring (if using) until smooth and spreadable.
Ice the Cookies: Pipe or spread the icing evenly over the cooled cookies. Let the icing set completely before serving or storing.

Notes

For best flavor, use freshly grated orange zest and fresh orange juice.
If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, you can add a few drops of orange extract to the dough or icing.
Ensure the dough is well chilled before rolling to prevent sticking and maintain cookie shape.
The orange food coloring is optional and only for aesthetic enhancement.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Allow icing to fully set before stacking or packing cookies.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: orange sugar cookies, citrus cookies, orange zest cookies, lemon extract cookies, iced sugar cookies, homemade cookies