If you’re on the hunt for a truly memorable treat, Orange and Cinnamon Cookies are here to brighten your table and fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma. Imagine a cookie with crisp edges, a chewy center, and the perfect marriage of zesty citrus and warm spice—these little gems deliver all of that and more. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack, a holiday cookie swap, or just because you adore the flavors of orange and cinnamon, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the magic that makes these cookies so special!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to cookie bliss, and this recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful. Each item on this list plays a starring role, contributing to the cookies’ texture, color, or that signature sweet-spicy punch.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb, so make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Not only sweetens but also helps the cookies achieve that classic chewy texture.
- Large egg (1): Acts as the binder and gives the cookies structure.
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon, from 1 large orange): Packs in a bright, punchy citrus flavor that’s unmistakable—grate only the orange part for best results.
- Fresh orange juice (1 tablespoon): Adds moisture and another layer of citrusy goodness.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The foundation that holds everything together—measure carefully for perfect cookies every time.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the cookies a gentle lift and helps them spread just right.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a cozy spice that balances the citrus beautifully.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Turbinado sugar or cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup, optional): For rolling the dough balls—a little crunch and sparkle for extra appeal.
How to Make Orange and Cinnamon Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple step ensures your Orange and Cinnamon Cookies bake evenly and release perfectly every time.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which results in cookies that are tender and slightly crisp around the edges. Don’t rush—this is the secret to bakery-style cookies.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. The egg helps bind everything together, while the orange zest and juice infuse the dough with a fragrant citrus note that makes these cookies unforgettable.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening and spice, so every bite of your Orange and Cinnamon Cookies is perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—just blend until there are no more streaks of flour. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 6: Shape and Coat (Optional)
Scoop out tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. If you want a little extra crunch and sparkle, roll each ball in turbinado sugar or cinnamon sugar before placing them on your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’re looking for lightly golden edges and set centers. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling—which lets them firm up nicely.
How to Serve Orange and Cinnamon Cookies
Garnishes
For an extra-special finish, dust your Orange and Cinnamon Cookies with powdered sugar once they’ve cooled, or drizzle them with a simple orange glaze. Even a few extra curls of orange zest on top can make them look bakery-fancy and amp up the citrus aroma.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of spiced tea, hot coffee, or a glass of cold milk. For a festive twist, serve alongside a citrusy fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream for a light dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cookies in clear gift bags tied with orange ribbon for a homemade gift, or arrange them on a tiered tray with cinnamon sticks and thin orange slices for a gorgeous centerpiece at your next gathering! Orange and Cinnamon Cookies also look stunning mixed with other holiday treats for a cookie exchange.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Orange and Cinnamon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to five days, making them perfect for snacking all week long.
Freezing
You can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies! For the dough, roll into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. For baked cookies, layer them between sheets of parchment in a container. Both will keep for up to three months—just thaw and enjoy.
Reheating
If your cookies have lost a little softness, pop them in a 300°F oven for 2-3 minutes. They’ll come out warm and almost as good as freshly baked. Let cool for a moment, then dive in!
FAQs
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh orange juice is best for its bright, natural flavor, but bottled juice will work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice and not from concentrate for the best taste in your Orange and Cinnamon Cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The cookies will still be soft, chewy, and full of citrus-spice flavor.
What’s the best way to zest an orange?
Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the colorful outer layer of the orange. Avoid the white pith underneath, as it can be bitter and affect the overall flavor of your Orange and Cinnamon Cookies.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe is easy to double if you’re baking for a crowd. Just be sure to mix in a large enough bowl and keep an eye on your oven, as baking times may vary slightly with multiple trays.
Are these cookies good for holiday gifting?
They’re perfect for gifting! Their unique flavor and festive appearance make Orange and Cinnamon Cookies a standout choice for cookie tins, party favors, or holiday dessert tables.
Final Thoughts
If you love treats that are a little bit special but incredibly easy to make, you simply have to try these Orange and Cinnamon Cookies. Their blend of bright citrus and warm spice is just so inviting, and every bite feels like a hug. Don’t be surprised if they become your new go-to cookie—happy baking!
Print
Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Orange and Cinnamon Cookies are soft, flavorful treats bursting with citrus zest and warm cinnamon spice. Perfectly balanced sweetness and a hint of fresh orange juice create a delightful cookie ideal for holiday baking or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 large orange)
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional
- 1/4 cup turbinado sugar or cinnamon sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender cookie.
- Add Egg and Orange Flavor: Beat in the large egg, orange zest, and fresh orange juice until everything is well combined, providing a fresh citrus flavor throughout the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until a soft dough forms, avoiding overmixing which can toughen the cookies.
- Optional Sugar Coating: If desired, roll tablespoons of dough into balls and coat each lightly with turbinado sugar or cinnamon sugar for a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Arrange and Bake Cookies: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden brown.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a stronger citrus flavor, increase the orange zest to 1 1/2 tablespoons.
- These cookies pair well with a simple orange glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar once cooled for an extra sweet touch.
- You can substitute turbinado sugar with cinnamon sugar for a different flavor and texture on the cookie exterior.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
