Chocolate Chip Orange Cookies – Soft & Chewy Citrus Twist
Soft, chewy chocolate chip orange cookies made with real orange zest and melted butter. A bright, citrusy twist on the classic cookie favorite.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted – gives the cookies that rich, chewy base.
- ⅓ cup (66g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar – adds depth and softness.
- 1 cup large egg – binds and adds moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – the quiet hero that rounds the flavors.
- 1 tsp orange extract – for that distinct citrus kick.
- 1 tbsp (9g) orange zest – don’t skip; this is where real orange magic lives.
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups (186g) all-purpose flour – spooned and leveled (not packed).
- 1 ½ cups (255g) chocolate chips – semi-sweet or milk; go dark for a bolder contrast.
Instructions
- Mix the Wet IngredientsIn a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Stir in the egg, vanilla extract, orange extract, orange zest, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Add the Dry IngredientsSlowly fold in the flour until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix — that’s what keeps the cookies soft. Stir in the chocolate chips gently until distributed through the dough.
- Chill the DoughScoop about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight if possible). Chilling solidifies the butter and gives you thicker, chewier cookies.
- BakePreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chilled dough balls about 2 inches apart on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 11–15 minutes, until edges are just golden and tops are slightly set (not glossy).
- Cool and ServeLet them cool on the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy warm — the orange aroma intensifies as they rest.