How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cookies: A Taste of Sunshine

These orange creamsicle cookies are like a ray of sunshine on a plate! They perfectly capture the nostalgic flavor of the classic creamsicle ice cream with a delightful chewy texture. This recipe is easy to follow, even if you’re a baking newbie, and I guarantee it will be a hit with everyone. Let’s bake!

What Makes These Cookies So Special?

Remember those orange and vanilla popsicles we loved as kids? These cookies taste exactly like them! The orange zest in the dough brings a fresh, citrusy aroma, while the creamy vanilla frosting adds a touch of sweetness. But the secret ingredient? A touch of orange extract in both the cookie dough and the frosting for that extra burst of orange flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon orange extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon orange extract
• Orange food coloring (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Zester
• Rubber spatula

Let’s Get Baking!

Step 1: Preparing the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 2: Baking the Cookies

1. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
2. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Making the Frosting

1. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and orange extract.
4. If desired, add a drop or two of orange food coloring for a more vibrant color.

Step 4: Frosting and Enjoying!

1. Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with the prepared frosting.
2. Let the frosting set for a few minutes before serving.

Orange Creamsicle Cookies

Tips for Baking the Perfect Orange Creamsicle Cookies

• Don’t overmix the dough! Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
• Use fresh orange zest. Freshly grated orange zest will give your cookies the best flavor.
• Chill the cookie dough. If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This will help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
• Get creative with the frosting! Add a sprinkle of orange zest on top of the frosting for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I use orange juice instead of orange extract?
A: While you can substitute orange juice for orange extract, keep in mind that it won’t be as potent. Start with 2 tablespoons of orange juice and add more to taste.

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Q: My frosting is too runny. What should I do?
A: Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Frosting Orange Creamsicle Cookies

These orange creamsicle cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! They are sure to bring back fond childhood memories with every bite. So why wait? Head to your kitchen and whip up a batch of these delightful cookies today!

Don’t forget to share your baking experience with us! Leave a comment below and tell us how your orange creamsicle cookies turned out. Happy baking!