Name: Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Yield: 18
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2½ cups cake flour; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter; ¼ cup all vegetable shortening; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp orange zest; 1 large egg; 1 large egg white; 1 tsp orange extract; 1 tsp vanilla extract; For Frosting:; 4 oz cream cheese; ¼ cup salted butter; 1 tsp orange extract; 2½ cups powdered sugar

Bursting with a delightful citrus flavor and a hint of creaminess, these orange creamsicle sugar cookies are sure to impress. The delicate balance of orange zest and vanilla in the cookie blends perfectly with the smooth cream cheese frosting, evoking memories of the classic childhood treat. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a fun twist to their cookies.

Photos of Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe

One key ingredient that might not be commonly found in your pantry is orange extract. This gives the cookies that extra punch of citrus flavor that makes them reminiscent of a creamsicle. You might also need to get cake flour and cornstarch, which give the cookies their soft, light texture. Lastly, the vegetable shortening adds a certain level of flakiness that you don't get with butter alone. All of these can be found in the baking aisle of your local supermarket.

Ingredients for Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

cake flour: This type of flour is finely milled and has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour, resulting in softer, lighter, and more delicate cookies.

cornstarch: Adds a slight lift and tenderness to the cookies, also helping to keep them soft.

baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies their lift and shape.

salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

unsalted butter: Adds flavor and helps with the texture of the cookie.

all vegetable shortening: Helps to make the cookies tender and flaky.

granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the cookies.

orange zest: Provides a natural and fresh orange flavor.

egg and egg white: Adds structure and binds the cookies together.

orange extract: Gives a strong, sweet orange flavor to the cookies.

vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.

cream cheese: Provides creaminess and tang to the frosting.

salted butter: Adds richness to the frosting.

powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

One reader, Dyann Dayton says:

These orange creamsicle sugar cookies are a delightful treat! The citrusy zest and creamy frosting create a perfect balance of flavors. The cookies are soft and chewy, and the frosting is heavenly. They're a hit with everyone who tries them. I highly recommend this recipe for a delicious and unique dessert!

Dyann Dayton

Techniques Required for Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe

How to prepare the cookie dough: Combine the dry ingredients and set aside. Cream together the butter, shortening, sugar, and orange zest. Add the eggs, extracts, and mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Refrigerate the dough for 2 to 3 hours before shaping into balls and baking.

How to make the frosting: Whip together the cream cheese and butter until pale and fluffy. Mix in the orange extract, followed by the powdered sugar, until well combined and fluffy. Spread the frosting on the cooled cookies and garnish with sprinkles.

How To Make Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

These orange sugar cookies have a soft and tender cookie base, a zesty orange infusion, and a smooth cream cheese frosting on top.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Refrigerate Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2½cupscake flour
2tspcornstarch
1½tspbaking powder
½tspsalt
½cupunsalted butter,room temperature
¼cupall vegetable shortening,unflavored, at room temperature
1cupgranulated sugar
1tbsporange zest
1large egg
1large egg white
1tsporange extract
1tspvanilla extract

For Frosting:

4ozcream cheese,softened
¼cupsalted butter,softened
1tsporange extract
2½cupspowdered sugar

Instructions

Cookies:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt, then set aside.
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, whip together ½ cup of butter, shortening, sugar and orange zest on medium speed for about 4 minutes until very pale and fluffy, occasionally scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Add in the egg and mix until combined, then add the egg white, orange extract and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
With the mixer running, slowly add in the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
Transfer the dough to an airtight container and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F during the last 10 minutes of refrigeration.
Scoop the dough out and shape into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place the dough balls on Silpat lined baking sheets and dust tops with flour, then using hands or the bottom of a large measuring cup, flatten the balls into rounds.
Bake in the oven for 8 to 11 minutes.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes on baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool.

Frosting:

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip the cream cheese and butter until pale and fluffy.
Mix in the orange extract, followed by powdered sugar, and blend until well combined and fluffy.
Frost and garnish the cookies with sprinkles, then serve. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Store in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 298.69kcal
Fat: 13.11g
Saturated Fat: 6.90g
Trans Fat: 0.69g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.82g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.30g
Carbohydrates: 43.40g
Fiber: 0.37g
Sugar: 27.75g
Protein: 2.57g
Cholesterol: 37.60mg
Sodium: 146.80mg
Calcium: 42.10mg
Potassium: 40.17mg
Iron: 1.53mg
Vitamin A: 92.31µg
Vitamin C: 0.68mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe

When zesting the orange, make sure to only get the outermost layer of the peel. The white pith underneath is bitter and can affect the overall taste of your cookies. Using a microplane or a fine grater can help you achieve this. Also, for an even more intense orange flavor, consider adding a bit of fresh orange juice to the cookie dough or frosting. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can make the dough too wet.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

Chill the dough: Chilling the cookie dough for at least 2 hours will make it easier to handle and prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help you create uniformly sized dough balls, ensuring that the cookies bake evenly and look professional.

Pre-measure ingredients: Before starting the recipe, pre-measure all the ingredients to streamline the baking process and avoid any last-minute scrambling for items.

Substitute Ingredients For Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe

cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cake flour in this recipe. However, for every cup of cake flour, use 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with unsalted butter: Unsalted butter can be used as a substitute for vegetable shortening in this recipe. Use the same amount of butter as the shortening called for in the recipe.
granulated sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar in this recipe, but it will add a slightly different flavor and color to the cookies.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for orange zest, providing a similar citrusy flavor to the cookies.
orange extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute for orange extract, providing a different but complementary flavor to the cookies.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting, providing a tangy and creamy texture.

Presenting Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

Elevate the cookie presentation: Arrange the cookies on a pristine white platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Garnish the platter with fresh orange slices and edible flowers to add a pop of color and visual interest.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the cookies on delicate porcelain plates or glass dessert stands to enhance the sophisticated presentation.
Create a balanced composition: Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, alternating with small ramekins of the orange creamsicle frosting for a visually pleasing display.
Add a touch of finesse with garnishes: Dust the cookies with edible gold leaf or a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest for a luxurious finishing touch.
Consider the element of height: Place the cookies on tiered dessert trays to add dimension and elegance to the presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a fine-tipped piping bag to delicately drizzle additional orange creamsicle frosting in a decorative pattern on the platter.
Enhance with edible floral elements: Adorn the platter with small, edible flowers such as pansies or microgreens to add a touch of natural beauty to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

Mixing bowl: A large, round bowl used for mixing ingredients together, such as batters, doughs, and salads.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal sheet used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
Silpat: A non-stick baking mat used to line baking sheets, providing a non-stick surface for baked goods.
Measuring cup: A kitchen tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Electric stand mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients, commonly used for baking.
Large measuring cup: A large, usually glass or plastic cup with volume markings used for measuring liquid ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To keep the cookies soft and fresh, place a slice of bread in the container with them. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and prevent the cookies from becoming stale.
If you want to store the cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until they are solid (about 1-2 hours).
- Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the cookies for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to serve, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying them.
If you want to freeze the cookie dough for later use:
- Shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Freeze the dough balls until they are solid (about 1-2 hours).
- Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Freeze the dough for up to 2 months.
- When ready to bake, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed in the recipe.
To maintain the best quality of the cream cheese frosting, store the frosted cookies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover orange creamsicle sugar cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crisp around the edges. This method will help restore the texture of the cookies and bring out the orange flavor.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the cookies in aluminum foil before placing them in the preheated oven. This will help retain moisture and prevent the cookies from becoming too crispy. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are heated through.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and microwave them on high for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat the cookies, as this can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a few extra minutes, consider using a toaster oven to reheat your orange creamsicle sugar cookies. Preheat the toaster oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crisp.
For a unique twist, try crumbling the leftover cookies over a bowl of vanilla ice cream or yogurt. The combination of the warm, orange-scented cookies and the cool, creamy base will create a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Interesting Fact About Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

The Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies recipe is a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie. The combination of orange zest, orange extract, and vanilla extract gives these cookies a refreshing citrus flavor. The addition of cream cheese in the frosting adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the sweetness of the cookies. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Is Making Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this orange creamsicle sugar cookies recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields a decent batch. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly treat. The delightful combination of orange and cream cheese creates a unique and flavorful cookie. Overall Verdict: 9.

Are Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The orange creamsicle sugar cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients, such as cake flour, butter, shortening, and sugar, are high in calories, saturated fats, and simple carbohydrates. The frosting, made with cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar, further adds to the calorie and sugar content. Consuming these cookies in excess could contribute to weight gain and other health issues associated with a high-fat, high-sugar diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some of the cake flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough and frosting, or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
Swap out the shortening for more unsalted butter or a healthier alternative like coconut oil
Incorporate more orange zest into the dough to enhance the orange flavor without adding extra sugar
Use reduced-fat cream cheese in the frosting to lower the saturated fat content
Experiment with adding finely grated carrots or zucchini to the dough for added moisture and nutrients
Reduce the portion size of the cookies to help control calorie intake

Editor's Opinion on Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe

The combination of citrusy orange and creamy frosting in these cookies creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. The use of cake flour and cornstarch results in a tender and delicate texture, while the orange zest and extracts infuse the cookies with bright, refreshing flavor. The frosting, with its creamy texture and hint of orange, complements the cookies beautifully. This recipe offers a wonderful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a delightful addition to any dessert spread.

Enhance Your Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the orange creamsicle sugar cookies.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection, adding a tropical twist to your dessert spread.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, providing a colorful and flavorful side to complement the orange creamsicle sugar cookies.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a delicious and healthy option for dinner. The zesty flavor of the lemon combined with the aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering marinade for the chicken. Perfect for a summer barbecue!

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert option. The sweet and tropical flavor of the mango combined with the creamy coconut milk and chia seeds creates a delightful pudding that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful herbs, and earthy mushrooms will leave everyone wanting more.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Delight your taste buds with this rich and creamy spinach and artichoke dip. The perfect blend of cheesy goodness and vibrant greens makes this appetizer a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish featuring tender chicken and a rich, flavorful Alfredo sauce. Pair it with your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry using thinly sliced beef and an assortment of fresh vegetables. Toss everything together in a savory sauce for a flavorful and nutritious main course.

Why trust this Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of orange zest and orange extract ensures a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite, while the addition of cream cheese in the frosting promises a lusciously creamy finish. The use of cake flour and cornstarch results in a tender and delicate cookie texture. With meticulous attention to detail and quality ingredients such as unsalted butter and vanilla extract, this recipe is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional taste and satisfaction. Trust in this recipe for a delightful treat that will surely impress.

Share your thoughts on this delightful Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know how yours turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for cake flour. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cookies may be slightly different.

Can I omit the orange zest in the cookie dough?

While the orange zest adds a lovely citrus flavor, you can omit it if you prefer a more subtle orange taste or if you don't have any on hand.

Can I make the frosting in advance?

Yes, you can make the frosting in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before using. You may need to give it a quick whip to restore its creamy texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use lemon extract instead of orange extract in the frosting?

Yes, you can substitute lemon extract for the orange extract in the frosting if you prefer a lemony flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will be different from the original orange creamsicle flavor.