Are you craving a delicious and easy dessert that's bursting with fresh citrus flavor? Look no further! These Orange Bliss Cookies are the perfect combination of chewy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness and a vibrant, zesty orange punch. They're surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort, making them ideal for a quick homemade treat or a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through creating these irresistible cookies. Get ready for a taste sensation that's both familiar and excitingly new!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped candied orange peel (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream Together the Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand if you're feeling strong!
Step 2: Add Eggs and Flavorings:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and orange juice. The orange juice adds a wonderful moistness and zing to the cookies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Stir in Candied Orange Peel (Optional):
If using, gently fold in the candied orange peel. This adds a delightful textural contrast and intensifies the orange flavor.
Step 5: Shape and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Slightly flatten each ball with a fork, creating a classic criss-cross pattern.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens can vary.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, enjoy these delightful orange-infused cookies!
Tips for the Best Orange Bliss Cookies:
- Fresh is Best: Using freshly squeezed orange juice makes a significant difference in the flavor of these cookies.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For even better results, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Chocolate Orange: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist.
- Glazed Orange Cookies: Once cooled, drizzle the cookies with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.
- Spiced Orange: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Fat: Approximately 8-10g Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
These Orange Bliss Cookies are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and memorable treat. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations. Enjoy baking and sharing these easy and healthy dessert recipes!