Orange Vanilla Soft Holiday Cookies

by
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Glaze & Add-Ins

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons orange juice or milk
  • Extra orange zest for topping
  • White chocolate drizzle
  • Holiday sprinkles

Fresh orange zest gives the best flavor and aroma.

Kitchen Equipment Required

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Standard cookie sheets work perfectly for this recipe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  6. Scoop dough into 1 1/2-tablespoon portions and place on the baking sheet.
  7. Gently press tops slightly to flatten.
  8. Bake for 9–11 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft.
  9. Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

The cookies will finish setting as they cool.

Pro Cooking Tips for Best Results

Continue reading…

Leave a Comment