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Soft Orange Cookies with Orange Icing

Deliciously soft and fluffy cookies infused with vibrant orange flavors, topped with a refreshing orange icing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cookie dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour The base of the cookie, providing structure.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder A leavening agent for fluffiness.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Works with baking powder for lightness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Adds flavor and tenderness.
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese Contributes to softness and creaminess.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Provides sweetness.
  • 1 large egg Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest Adds vibrant citrus flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice Enhances orange flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth to the flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract Optional nutty sweetness.
For the orange icing
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar Used for icing.
  • 2-3 tablespoons orange juice Adjusts icing consistency.
  • 1 pinch salt Enhances sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract Optional, adds depth to icing flavor.
  • 1-2 tablespoons orange zest (for garnish) Optional, adds burst of flavor and color.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  4. Gradually add granulated sugar and egg, beating until combined.
  5. Stir in orange zest, fresh orange juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
  6. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  7. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Baking
  1. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges begin to set and tops are slightly golden.
  2. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to cooling racks.
Icing
  1. In a bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar with orange juice and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  2. If glaze is too thick, add more orange juice gradually to reach desired consistency.
  3. Drizzle or spread icing over cooled cookies and optionally garnish with orange zest.

Notes

For best results, use freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly grated zest. Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain softness. You can freeze the dough or baked cookies for later consumption.