Are You Craving a Zesty Treat? Try White Chocolate Creamsicle Orange Cookies! 🍊🍪
If sunshine could be baked into a cookie, this would be it. These White Chocolate Creamsicle Orange Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with citrusy flavor from real orange zest and a kiss of orange extract. The creamy sweetness of white chocolate chips balances the tang, creating a cookie that tastes like the frozen creamsicle treats we all loved as kids—only better and homemade!
Whether you’re baking for a spring brunch, holiday cookie tray, or simply to brighten someone’s day, these cookies deliver big flavor in an irresistibly pretty package.
Why I Love This Recipe
These cookies bring nostalgia and freshness together in one perfect bite. I love the way the orange zest infuses the dough, while the optional orange preserve drizzle makes them feel a little fancy without being fussy.
They bake up like a dream—just like Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies—with crispy edges and soft centers that melt in your mouth. Plus, the combo of white chocolate and citrus is a hidden gem that deserves way more attention.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon orange extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup orange preserves (optional, for drizzle)
Ingredient Swaps & Tips
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for more control over salt levels.
- Zest: Always zest before juicing oranges. Use fresh zest for maximum flavor.
- Chips: Swap white chocolate with dark or add chopped dried cranberries for a twist.
- Orange Preserves: Warm slightly before drizzling for a smooth finish.
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
Add egg, vanilla extract, and orange extract. Beat until combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in Flavor
Stir in orange zest and white chocolate chips.
6. Shape and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
7. Cool & Drizzle
Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. If desired, drizzle lightly with warm orange preserves.
Tips for Success
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if baking in a warm kitchen to prevent spreading.
- Use a cookie scoop for even sizes and consistent baking.
- Do not overbake—the centers should look just set when you take them out.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cookies with:
- A tall glass of milk or citrusy iced tea
- Alongside Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites for a color-pop cookie platter
- Easter Cookies for a spring dessert board
- Easy Coconut Macaroons for a light and tropical pairing
Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Fridge: Optional for longer freshness, especially with preserve topping.
- Freezer: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months.
More Cookies You’ll Love
If you loved this citrusy twist, try:
Final Thoughts
These White Chocolate Creamsicle Orange Cookies are sweet, zesty, and perfectly balanced with creamy white chocolate. They’re easy enough to make on a whim but special enough to serve at any celebration.
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