Orange Butter Cookies

Orange butter cookies are a delightful treat that blend the rich, creamy flavor of butter with the fresh zest of oranges. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, offering a buttery texture combined with a citrusy twist that is both refreshing and indulgent. The preparation of these cookies is a simple yet rewarding process, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that will fill your home with a delightful aroma. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are sure to delight your taste buds. The secret to their irresistible flavor lies in the zest of fresh oranges, which infuses the cookies with a vibrant taste. These cookies make a wonderful gift for friends and family, or a delicious addition to any dessert platter. Enjoy them warm from the oven for the ultimate experience. The steps are easy to follow, ensuring that your cookies come out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 125 g butter at room temperature
• 100 g white sugar
• 1 egg
• 200 g all-purpose flour

Spices and Flavorings

• Zest of 2 oranges

Leavening Agents

• 1.5 tsp baking powder

Other

• 1 pinch of salt
• 3 tbsp brown sugar

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 150 minutes (including 2 hours chilling)
• Active Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and white sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg to the mixture and continue to beat until the batter becomes airy and smooth.
3. Grate the zest from two oranges and mix it into the creamed mixture.
4. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients.
5. Use your hands to gently knead the dough until it is smooth and no longer sticky.
6. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for about 2 hours to chill.
7. Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
8. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.
9. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough.
10. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the cookies on the tray, leaving space between them for spreading.
11. Sprinkle the cookies lightly with brown sugar for added sweetness and texture.
12. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
13. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes.
14. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
15. Serve the cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
16. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
17. Share these cookies with friends and family or enjoy them as a late-night snack.
18. Experiment with different shapes using various cookie cutters for festive occasions.
19. Ensure that your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
20. For an extra citrus boost, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the dough.

Tips

• Ensure the butter is at room temperature before starting for better creaming.
• For a different flavor, substitute lemon zest for orange zest.
• Chilling the dough is crucial for the texture and helps in easier cutting.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 80 kcal per cookie
• Protein: 1 g
• Fats: 4.5 g
• Carbs: 10 g

Variations

• For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for more texture.
• Substitute half the butter with coconut oil for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or black coffee.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Enjoy with a fresh fruit salad for a lighter option.

Best Places

• Levain Bakery - Famous for their cookies. Location: 167 W 74th St, New York, NY, USA.
• Ben's Cookies - Known for classic flavors. Location: 353 Oxford St, London, UK.
• Tartine Bakery - Offers a unique twist on classic desserts. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, CA, USA.
• Les Deux Magots - A renowned French café. Location: 6 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés, Paris, France.
• Cafe Tortoni - Iconic café with a rich history. Location: Av. de Mayo 825, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers elegant pastries. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, 20123 Milano MI, Italy.
• Paillard - Known for baked goods and coffee. Location: 1097 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec City, QC, Canada.
• The Ricotta and Brownie - Well-loved for their take on cookies. Location: Unit 6 37-41 Bayswater Road, Sydney, Australia.
• Jongga Tong International Bakery - Offers international baked goods. Location: Wausan-ro 35-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
• The Cookie Department - Known for rich, decadent cookies. Location: 1329 Pacific St, Santa Monica, CA, USA.