Orange Refrigerator Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 30 Cuisine: American

Orange Refrigerator Cookies offer a delightful citrus flavor with a buttery, crisp texture, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a sweet, tangy treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange rind
  • 3 tablespoons orange juice or orange extract
  • 2 3/4 cups sifted flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar together.
  2. Add the beaten egg, grated orange rind, and orange juice or extract.
  3. Beat vigorously until well combined.
  4. Add the sifted dry ingredients gradually and mix thoroughly.
  5. Shape the dough into two rolls and cover with wax paper.
  6. Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator.
  7. Slice one-fourth-inch thick slices from the rolls.
  8. Bake in a hot oven at 400°F for about ten minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the dough for extra texture and flavor. If you're short on butter, you can substitute half with coconut oil for a slightly different taste. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars. For a colorful presentation, you might also sprinkle some colored sugar on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own but can be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They also make a great addition to dessert platters alongside a slice of Chocolate Cake With Creamy Icing. Consider serving them with a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the baked cookies in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Orange Refrigerator Cookies contains roughly 72 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

72 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 15.6g 6% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 5.4g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 55.7mg 2% DV
Potassium 61.9mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 21.6mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 25.1mg 2% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 a different type of citrus instead of orange?

Absolutely! You can substitute the orange rind and juice with lemon or lime for a zesty variation. Just be mindful of the acidity; you may need to adjust the sugar slightly to balance the flavors. Other citrus options like grapefruit can also work for a unique twist.

How can I make these cookies healthier?

To make these cookies healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute. Additionally, replacing some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce can lower the fat content while still keeping the cookies moist.

Can I prep the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prep the dough ahead of time! After shaping it into rolls, wrap them tightly in wax paper and store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. When you're ready to bake, just slice and bake from the fridge or thaw if frozen.

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).

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