Crisp Orange Cookies
Crisp orange cookies offer a delightful citrus flavor with a crisp texture, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and shortening together until well combined.
- Add the unbeaten egg and flavorings (vanilla, orange extract, butter flavoring); mix well.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually mix into the creamed mixture.
- Stir in milk until the dough is soft and workable.
- Dip hands in flour and form the dough into small balls.
- Place the dough balls on a greased baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each cookie with a flat bottom glass dipped in sugar.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use a mix of all-purpose flour and almond flour for a nutty flavor. If you want a more intense orange flavor, add some grated orange zest to the dough. Remember not to overmix after adding the flour to keep the cookies crisp and tender.
Serving Suggestions
These crisp orange cookies make a delightful treat with afternoon tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Verna Maes' Apple Crunch for a sweet dessert spread. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with a simple orange glaze for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their crispness, consider placing a piece of bread in the container. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes, which will help restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisp Orange Cookies contains roughly 140 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening in this recipe. However, keep in mind that using butter will give the cookies a slightly different texture and flavor, making them richer. You may also need to chill the dough for a bit to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are golden around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking to ensure they remain crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Simply shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).