These melt-in-your-mouth orange cookies are the perfect combination of light and airy with a hint of citrus. The simple ingredients and quick preparation make them a go-to recipe for any day you want a sweet, homemade treat. The infusion of orange peel adds a refreshing twist to the cookies, making them a family favorite!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 80g sugar
- 120 ml sunflower oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange (orange peel)
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- Add the sunflower oil, vanilla extract, and orange zest, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Using a spoon or your hands, form small balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert treat.
- Pack them in a lunchbox for a sweet snack.
- Pair with fresh fruit for a light and refreshing dessert.
- Serve at a party or gathering for a simple yet delicious treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure you don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft and melt-in-your-mouth, not crispy.
- You can substitute sunflower oil with any mild oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
Nutritional Benefits:
- The use of eggs and oil gives these cookies a good amount of healthy fats and protein.
- Orange peel provides vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system.
- These cookies are a good source of energy with a balance of carbs and fats.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free if using a gluten-free flour substitute.
Nutritional Facts (per serving – makes approx. 12 cookies):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 19g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
Storage:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
- The refreshing orange zest gives a unique twist to traditional cookies.
- Soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s irresistible.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to holiday treats.
Conclusion:
These orange cookies are a delightful treat that will quickly become a household favorite. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and simple ingredients make them easy to whip up any time you need a sweet snack. Whether you enjoy them with tea or as an after-dinner treat, they’re sure to impress. Try them today, and enjoy the perfect combination of sweetness and citrus!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange peel?
- Yes! You can substitute orange zest with lemon, lime, or even grapefruit zest for a different flavor.
- Can I substitute sunflower oil with another type of oil?
- Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter.
- Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
- No, the dough does not need to be chilled. You can bake immediately.
- Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
- Yes, adding chocolate chips would be a delicious variation!
- How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
- The cookies are done when the edges are slightly golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
- Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
- How can I make these cookies softer?
- For softer cookies, slightly reduce the baking time or add an extra tablespoon of oil to the dough.
- Can I use a hand mixer instead of whisking by hand?
- Yes, you can use a hand mixer to combine the ingredients for a smoother texture.
- How can I add more flavor to these cookies?
- You can add a dash of vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.