Orange Zest Sugar Cookies

Name: Orange Zest Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I love making these Orange Zest Sugar Cookies whenever I need a burst of citrus flavor in my day. The combination of sweet sugar cookie dough with fresh orange zest creates a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. I've experimented with various types of citrus, but the aromatic zest of oranges truly elevates these cookies. They are a fantastic way to brighten up an afternoon with friends or to bring a cheerful touch to a gathering. You'll find they disappear fast!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:53:27.506Z

When I first decided to add orange zest to sugar cookies, I was curious about how the flavors would complement each other. After several batches, I discovered that the zest not only gives an incredible aroma but also enhances the sweetness of the cookies without overpowering them. This balance is what makes these cookies so special.

Additionally, I found that chilling the dough before baking helped develop the flavors and ensured the cookies maintained their shape in the oven. This simple tip can really elevate the final product, making each bite more satisfying. Give it a try, and you’ll see the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The vibrant orange zest adds a refreshing twist to classic sugar cookies.
These cookies have the perfect balance of sweetness with a citrus kick.
They're quick and easy to make, perfect for any baking novice.

      

The Role of Orange Zest

The star of these cookies is undoubtedly the fresh orange zest. Using fresh zest, rather than bottled, enhances the flavor profile significantly. The essential oils present in the zest provide a bright, citrus aroma that permeates the cookie dough. It's important to use a microplane or fine grater to avoid any large pieces that could affect the texture. Just a tablespoon can transform your cookies from ordinary to extraordinary, giving a vibrant taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar.

When grating the orange, be sure to only take the outer layer of the peel. The white pith underneath is bitter and can alter the overall taste of your cookies. If you fancy experimenting, you can try zesting a mix of citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a multi-citrus sensation. These combinations can offer a refreshing twist, but keep the orange zest as the primary flavor to ensure a balanced sweetness.

Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough is a critical step that should not be overlooked. By resting the dough for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator, you allow the butter to firm up, which helps in shaping the cookies and prevents them from spreading too much during baking. This results in the ideal thickness and a chewy texture. If you're short on time, you can chill the dough for just 15 minutes, but I recommend opting for the full 30 if possible.

Moreover, if you're planning to bake these cookies later, you can wrap the chilled dough in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then proceed with scooping and baking. This makes it super convenient if you want to prepare cookies ahead of time for an event or gathering.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smoother baking experience.

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once all ingredients are prepared, you’re ready to start mixing and baking!

Instructions

Make sure to follow the steps carefully for the best results.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, orange zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Enjoy the delightful aroma while the cookies cool down and get ready to serve them with a cup of tea or coffee.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a drizzle of orange glaze once the cookies have cooled.

Serving Suggestions

These Orange Zest Sugar Cookies shine when paired with a refreshing beverage. Consider serving them alongside a chilled glass of iced tea or a bright lemonade. The citrus flavors harmonize beautifully, making for a delightful afternoon treat. For an elegant touch, you can also stack them in a clear glass jar and tie a ribbon around it as a lovely gift for friends or family.

For a festive twist, consider sandwiching a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert. The warm cookie contrasts perfectly with the cold ice cream, creating a treat that is hard to resist. During holidays, you might even glaze them with a simple powdered sugar and orange juice mixture for an added sweet finish.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue people face is cookies that turn out too flat. This typically happens if the butter was too soft at the start or if the dough wasn’t sufficiently chilled before baking. If you find that your cookies spread out excessively, make sure to chill the dough longer next time or slightly increase the flour by just a couple of tablespoons to create a thicker dough.

If you find yourself with cookies that are dry, this could be due to overbaking. Keep a close watch on them after the 8-minute mark, as the edges should be golden while the centers remain soft. Also, remember that cookies continue to bake slightly from residual heat once they are removed from the oven. Always cool them on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to prevent them from becoming crumbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use lemon zest instead of orange zest?

Yes, lemon zest can be used as a substitute for a different citrus flavor.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the wrapped dough for up to three months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What if I don't have orange zest?

You can leave it out, but the cookies will be less flavorful. Consider using a splash of orange juice instead.