Sugar cookies are a classic for a reason, and in this recipe, we’ve added a bright twist with fresh orange zest. It brings a subtle tang that perfectly complements the buttery sweetness, giving these cookies a little extra something special.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 large orange (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until smooth. After mixing, chill the dough for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight). Well-chilled dough is firmer and less sticky, making it easier to roll out and cut clean shapes.
- Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Even thickness ensures uniform baking.
- Use cookie cutters to cut shapes, then transfer them to the baking sheet using a thin spatula or bench scraper to keep shapes intact.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tip: For extra citrusy sweetness, mix powdered sugar with a little fresh orange juice and drizzle over cooled cookies.
