Easy Christmas Cookies with Orange Juice – Bright, Buttery & Festive
Bake soft, citrusy Christmas cookies with orange juice and zest — a fresh twist on classic sugar cookies ready in under an hour. Perfect for gifting or sharing!
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (about 68°F / 20°C)
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 1 tbsp freshly grated orange zest
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from 1–2 oranges)
- 1¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
For the Orange Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1-2 tbsp orange juice (adjust for thickness)
- ½ tsp finely grated orange zest
- 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Baking SheetsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper — it keeps cleanup painless and prevents over-browning.
- Mix Dry IngredientsIn a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter, Sugar, and ZestIn a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat the butter, sugar, and orange zest on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat until just combined.
- Combine Wet and DryReduce mixer speed to low. Add half the dry ingredients, then pour in the orange juice. Add the remaining flour mixture and beat until a soft dough forms. Scrape the bowl’s sides to ensure everything’s evenly mixed.
- Shape and BakeScoop 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges look lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Cool CompletelyLet the cookies rest on the sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before glazing.
- Make the GlazeIn a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, zest, and melted butter until smooth and glossy.
- Glaze and SetSpread or drizzle glaze over cooled cookies. Allow 20 minutes for the glaze to set before stacking or storing.