If you’re on the lookout for a cookie that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining zesty orange peel with the gentle spice of cinnamon, these cookies deliver a perfect balance of bright and cozy flavors. They are delightfully tender thanks to the addition of cornflour, and the icing sugar offers just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the delicate citrus and spice notes. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat to pair with your afternoon tea, these cookies are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but play crucial roles in creating that perfect texture and flavor. Every element, from the fresh orange peel to the soft butter, is essential for making these cookies sing with flavor and melt in your mouth.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that gives the cookies structure without being too heavy.
- Unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and helps create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Icing sugar: Provides a delicate sweetness that blends smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Cornflour (corn starch): Key for softness, it keeps the cookies light and crumbly.
- Finely grated orange peel: Bursting with bright citrus flavor, it’s what brings the cookies to life.
- Cinnamon powder: Infuses warmth and subtle spice that perfectly complements the orange.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and brightness beautifully.
How to Make Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by bringing your butter to room temperature so it’s nice and soft, which is key for mixing. Finely grate the peel from a medium orange, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith. Having all ingredients ready and measured will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter with the icing sugar until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy. This step is important because it aerates the dough, helping to create delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Step 3: Add Orange Peel and Spices
Fold the grated orange peel and cinnamon powder into the butter and sugar mixture. The orange peel introduces a fresh citrus zing that awakens your senses, while the cinnamon adds a cozy, warm undertone that’s delightful in every bite.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornflour, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients evenly ensures each cookie has the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, gently folding until just combined. Take care not to overmix; you want the dough to stay tender and soft without becoming tough.
Step 6: Shape and Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into small balls or your preferred cookie shape and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Chill the dough for about 15 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for approximately 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible and a delicious hint that the cookies are just about ready.
How to Serve Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra icing sugar right before serving for that delicate, snow-dusted look. You might also add a tiny twist of candied orange peel on top for a burst of color and enhanced citrus aroma—perfect for impressing guests or elevating your snack time.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of chai, hot tea, or freshly brewed coffee. Their warm cinnamon notes complement spiced drinks and the refreshing orange contrast awakens your palate, making any teatime feel special.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these cookies on a decorative plate tied with a rustic ribbon for gifting or arrange them around a platter with fresh orange slices and cinnamon sticks for a charming holiday centerpiece. Serving them with a side of whipped cream or clotted cream is another elegant touch that adds indulgence to the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their tender texture and lovely aroma. Stored properly, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days, ready for you to enjoy any time without losing their signature flavor or softness.
Freezing
To enjoy this Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe long after baking day, freeze the shaped dough balls before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight bag; they will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply pop them straight in a preheated oven, adding a couple extra minutes to baking time.
Reheating
If you want to refresh the cookies before serving, warm them gently in an oven at low heat for 5 minutes. This brings back that just-baked softness and enhances the aroma of orange and cinnamon, making them taste as heavenly as fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange peel?
While you can substitute orange extract, fresh grated orange peel provides a more vibrant and natural citrus flavor that really makes the cookies special. The texture and aroma from the peel are unmatched and truly enhance this Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe.
Is cornflour essential in this recipe?
Yes, cornflour plays a key role in creating the signature softness and tenderness of these cookies. It lightens the texture significantly compared to using all-purpose flour alone, giving the cookies their delicate crumb.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
You can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind that texture might change. Make sure your blend includes a starch such as tapioca or potato starch to mimic the lightness cornflour provides in this recipe.
What is the best way to ensure the cookies don’t spread too much during baking?
Chilling the dough before baking is essential. It firms up the fat in the dough, which helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents excessive spreading for perfectly round, pretty cookies every time.
How long do these cookies stay fresh after baking?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these delightful cookies stay fresh and delicious for about 5 days, making them a great make-ahead treat or for sharing with friends throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe is pure joy baked into every bite. Its beautiful blend of zesty citrus and warming spice feels like a cozy little celebration for your taste buds. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or just a quiet moment of indulgence, I can’t recommend these cookies enough. Have fun baking, share the love, and enjoy that comforting aroma filling your kitchen!
Print
Orange and Cinnamon Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delightful Orange and Cinnamon Cookies offer a perfect balance of zesty citrus and warm spice. Soft and tender with a subtle sweetness, they are ideal for a cozy afternoon treat or sharing with friends and family. The combination of orange zest and cinnamon powder brings a unique flavor twist to traditional cookies, making them both aromatic and delicious.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp cornflour (corn starch)
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup icing sugar
- Finely grated orange peel (from 1 medium orange)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornflour, cinnamon powder, and salt. This helps to combine the ingredients evenly and remove any lumps.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and icing sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step ensures the cookies have a tender texture.
- Add Orange Zest: Mix the finely grated orange peel into the creamed butter and sugar, distributing the zest evenly to infuse the dough with citrus flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a smooth cookie dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the cookies are set.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart when moved.
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- You can substitute cornflour with an equal amount of cornstarch if needed.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- For a stronger orange flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of fresh orange juice or extract.
- These cookies can be dipped in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
