Easy Christmas Cookies with Orange Juice Recipe

If you’re dreaming of festive treats that bring a refreshing twist to your holiday baking, these Easy Christmas Cookies with Orange Juice are exactly what you need. Combining the bright, zesty flavor of fresh orange juice and zest with a tender, buttery texture, these cookies strike the perfect balance between classic holiday sweetness and citrusy sparkle. They’re delightfully simple to make, and each bite bursts with festive cheer, making them an instant favorite for gifting, sharing, or enjoying by the twinkling lights of your Christmas tree.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity fool you—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the light, flavorful texture and vibrant citrus notes of these cookies. These staples come together to make a wonderfully balanced dough and a luscious glaze that brightens every bite.

• 2 cups and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (255g): The foundation of your cookies providing structure and softness.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and citrus flavors perfectly.
• 3/4 cup white sugar (150g): Adds the classic holiday sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g): Provides richness and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• 1 tablespoon orange peel zest (from about 2 oranges): Packs a bright, fragrant punch that elevates the entire cookie.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (120ml): Infuses the dough with fresh citrus tang and moisture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (120g): For the sweet, delicate glaze that crowns each cookie.
• Zest from half an orange: Gives the glaze an extra sparkle of orange flavor.
• 1 to 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice: Adjusts glaze consistency and boosts its citrus brightness.
• 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter: Adds smooth richness to the glaze for a shiny finish.

How to Make Easy Christmas Cookies with Orange Juice

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheets and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to go once your dough is mixed. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a total breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly. Setting this dry mix aside will keep everything organized and ready to combine at the perfect moment in the process.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or a good old-fashioned hand mixer, beat together the softened butter, sugar, and orange peel zest on medium speed until the mixture turns light, fluffy, and inviting—about 3 minutes. Then, beat in the egg until everything is blended beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Switch your mixer to low and gradually add the dry flour mixture alternately with the freshly squeezed orange juice. This step ensures your dough stays tender and evenly mixed. Remember to pause and scrape the sides of your bowl occasionally—that’s how you get an even, perfect dough every time.

Step 5: Form and Bake the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread slightly. Bake each sheet one at a time for about 10 minutes, or until the cookie centers appear dry and feel firm to the touch. Let them cool on the baking sheet briefly before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare and Apply the Glaze for Easy Christmas Cookies with Orange Juice

Whisk together the powdered sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and melted butter until you have a smooth glaze. Spread this shiny, citrusy glaze over each cooled cookie and allow them to sit for roughly 20 minutes until the glaze firms up nicely, adding that perfect glossy finish.

How to Serve Easy Christmas Cookies with Orange Juice

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a bit more finely grated orange zest or a tiny dusting of powdered sugar over the glazed cookies right before serving. A few candied orange peels on the side can also add eye-catching elegance and a chewy contrast.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced tea, fresh peppermint hot chocolate, or even mulled wine. Their citrus brightness complements warm, cozy beverages perfectly, making every holiday gathering feel even more special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these cookies tied with festive ribbon for charming homemade gifts or arrange them on a beautiful holiday platter surrounded by fresh evergreen sprigs and cranberries. They also layer wonderfully in cookie tins for gifting or storing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to a week, which means plenty of time to enjoy that cheerful orange aroma and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to bake ahead for the holidays, these cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep their texture and taste for up to 3 months.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature. If you love a warm cookie, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to gently refresh their soft texture and brighten the citrus glaze.

FAQs

Can I substitute orange juice with something else?

While orange juice brings a unique tang and sweetness that defines this cookie, you could experiment with other citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit for a twist. Just keep in mind the flavor and acidity balance will change, possibly affecting texture and taste.

What type of flour is best for these cookies?

All-purpose flour is the best choice as it provides the perfect balance of structure and tenderness. Using cake flour could make them too soft while bread flour might make them tougher.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help keep the texture just right without losing the soft, tender crumb.

How long will the glaze stay fresh?

The glaze sets nicely after about 20 minutes and stays fresh for several days when stored properly with the cookies in an airtight container. For the best shine and flavor, consume within a week.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch that pairs wonderfully with the citrus flavor. Just fold them into the dough during step 4 before baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a cookie that’s both simple to make and bursting with festive flavor, and these Easy Christmas Cookies with Orange Juice fit that description perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a joyful way to bring a bit of sunshine and sparkle to your holiday celebrations. Give it a try and watch these bright, zesty cookies become a new holiday tradition in your home!

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