How to Make Orange Blossom Cookies: A Bite of Sunshine

Orange Blossom Cookies, or as I fondly call them, “little bites of sunshine,” are a delightful treat that transports you to a sun-drenched orange grove with every bite. The delicate floral aroma of orange blossom water combined with the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture of these cookies is simply divine. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. Let’s gather our ingredients and embark on this baking adventure together!

Ingredients for Orange Blossom Bliss

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

A Note on Ingredients

Orange blossom water is the star ingredient that gives these cookies their unique flavor. You can usually find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or the international aisle of larger supermarkets. If you can’t find it, you can substitute it with an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different.

Butter should be softened to room temperature for optimal creaminess.

Tools of the Trade

Baking is always more enjoyable with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (optional, but recommended)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Baking Our Sunshine Cookies: Step-by-Step

1. Creaming for Tenderness: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the dough, resulting in tender cookies.

2. Adding Flavor & Richness: Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and orange blossom water until well combined.

3. Incorporating Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

4. Chilling for Flavor & Texture: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap each disk tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

5. Shaping & Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

   • Classic Round Cookies: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create desired shapes.
   • Elegant Crescent Cookies: Form the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a 3-inch log and then bend it into a crescent shape.

6. Baking to Golden Perfection: Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown.

7. Cooling & Dusting: Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.