Real Orange Cookies
Bright and citrusy orange cookies with a tender crumb and a hint of nut or coconut, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start heating oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sift together cake flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Mix shortening with sugar, eggs, and grated orange rind until creamy.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture alternately with orange juice.
- Stir in nuts or coconut.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls (about 2 inches apart) onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden.
- Remove from oven and cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your cake flour is well-sifted. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, although it may alter the flavor slightly. You can also experiment with different nuts or even dried fruits for added texture. If you're looking for a zesty twist, consider adding a bit more grated orange rind.
Serving Suggestions
These Real Orange Cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun dessert platter, serve alongside Bakeless Oatmeal Cookies or Fancy Lime Jello for a colorful assortment. You could also drizzle a light glaze over the cookies for extra sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm, which will restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Real Orange Cookies contains roughly 77 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 other citrus fruits instead of oranges?
Yes, you can substitute grated lemon or lime rind and juice for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness if necessary, as different citrus fruits have varying levels of tartness.
What can I use instead of eggs?
For a vegan alternative, you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binding agent. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Cookies are typically done when they are golden around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven.
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).