Orange Creamsicle Cookies

Orange Creamsicle Cookies are a delightful fusion of bright citrus flavors and creamy white chocolate, reminiscent of the classic orange creamsicle treat. These cookies are soft, plump, and bursting with fresh orange zest, making them perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want a refreshing, sweet treat. The combination of orange and vanilla extracts gives these cookies their signature creamsicle flavor, while the white chocolate chips add a creamy richness that complements the citrusy zest.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon orange extract
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (zest of 2 oranges)
• 2 cups white chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.

3. Add the Flavors:

• Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The extracts will infuse the dough with a rich, creamsicle-like flavor.

4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

5. Add the Zest and Chips:

• Stir in the orange zest and white chocolate chips by hand until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The orange zest will give the cookies a fresh, vibrant citrus flavor.

6. Shape and Bake:

• Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined cookie sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading. Do not flatten the dough balls; this will help the cookies stay plump and soft.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake—the cookies should remain soft and slightly undercooked in the center for the best texture.

7. Cool and Store:

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up without becoming dry.
• Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and softness.

Tips:

• Zest Tip: When zesting oranges, make sure to only grate the outer orange skin and avoid the bitter white pith underneath. The zest is where the essential oils and flavor are concentrated.
• Texture Tip: These cookies are meant to be soft and slightly chewy. Overbaking can cause them to become dry, so keep a close eye on them while they’re in the oven.
• Serving Suggestion: These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat that mimics the creamsicle experience.
• Storage Tip: To keep your cookies soft and chewy, place a slice of bread in the container with them. The bread will help absorb any excess moisture, preventing the cookies from becoming stale.

These Orange Creamsicle Cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the refreshing combination of citrus and creamy sweetness. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or as a special treat to brighten your day!