Creamsicle Orange Sugar Cookies Recipe

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 1 hr
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 175  C
Servings: 24
Best Season: Summer
Description

These Creamsicle Orange Sugar Cookies combine the nostalgic flavor of a classic orange creamsicle with the soft, buttery texture of a homemade sugar cookie. Each bite melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of sweet vanilla and refreshing citrus notes. They’re ideal for summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or when you just crave something bright and cheerful.

Ingredients
    For the Orange Sugar Cookie Dough:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp orange zest (from about 1–2 oranges)
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp orange extract (optional but enhances flavor)
    • For the Orange Cream Frosting:
  • 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp 2–3 fresh orange juice (adjust for desired consistency)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • A drop or two of orange food coloring (optional, for color pop)
Instructions
    Prepare the Dry Ingredients
  1. 1
    In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures your cookies rise properly.
    2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes. This aeration gives your cookies their soft texture.
    3. Add Wet Ingredients
  3. 3
    Beat in the egg, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange extract (if using). Mix until everything is smooth and creamy. The mixture should have a subtle citrus aroma and creamy consistency.
    4. Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures
  4. 4
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in 2–3 portions, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix; stop as soon as no streaks of flour remain. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
    5. Chill the Dough
  5. 5
    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.
    6. Shape and Bake the Cookies
  6. 6
    Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie and roll into smooth balls. Place them about 2 inches apart.
    7. Flatten slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.
  7. 7
    Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. The centers should remain soft and pale. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
    8. Prepare the Orange Cream Frosting
  8. 8
    In a separate bowl, beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more orange juice; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
    9. Frost the Cookies
  9. 9
    Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread or pipe the orange cream frosting over each cookie. For a vibrant look, add a tiny drop of orange food coloring to the frosting and mix well.
    10. Serve and Enjoy!
  10. 10
    Let the frosting set for about 10 minutes before serving. These cookies are soft, citrusy, and perfectly balanced — the ideal summer treat!
Note

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing: The unfrosted cookies freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

Flavor Tip: Add a touch of cream cheese to the frosting for a tangy twist.

Zest Tip: Always zest the orange before juicing to make it easier.

Keywords: orange sugar cookies, soft cookies, citrus dessert, easy baking, summer cookies
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/creamsicle-orange-sugar-cookies-recipe/