Description
Soft, buttery Christmas cookies infused with fresh orange juice and zest for a bright, citrusy twist on a holiday classic — perfectly tender, slightly chewy, and bursting with festive flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting or icing (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple orange glaze if desired.
Notes
- For an extra orange flavor, add 1/2 tsp orange extract to the dough.
- Make a glaze by mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp orange juice.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- These cookies pair beautifully with tea, hot cocoa, or mulled wine during the holidays.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: European