Tender cookies with orange peel

Tender Orange Peel Cookies

A simple and delicious recipe, tender orange peel cookies are perfect to enjoy alongside a steaming cup of tea or a fragrant coffee. These cookies not only combine a fluffy texture with the fresh aroma of orange, but they are also easy to make, making them ideal even for beginners.

The history of cookies is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These delights have evolved over the years, being adapted and perfected so that each culture brings a unique touch. Orange peel cookies, in particular, blend sweetness with a subtle acidity, offering a memorable tasting experience.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20-30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 30 cookies

Ingredients:
- 4 fresh eggs
- 250 g sugar
- 250 ml oil (you can use sunflower or olive oil, depending on your preference)
- 450 g flour
- 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Zest from 1-2 oranges (preferably organic, to avoid pesticides)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
- Make sure you have all the ingredients at room temperature. Eggs and oil mix better when they are not cold. The orange peel should be finely grated, so I recommend using a small grater to achieve a uniform texture.

2. Beat the Eggs with Sugar:
- In a large bowl, add the 4 eggs and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together at medium speed for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This is a crucial step, as the air incorporated during this process will make the cookies fluffier.

3. Add the Oil and Flavors:
- Continuing to mix, gradually add the oil. Once fully incorporated, add the vanilla extract and grated orange peel. The spices are what bring the recipe to life, so don't hesitate to use a generous amount of orange peel for an intense flavor.

4. Incorporate the Flour:
- Start adding the sifted flour little by little to the egg mixture. It’s important to mix with a spatula or a wooden spoon, using gentle up-and-down motions to avoid losing air in the mixture. The flour should be well incorporated, but don’t overmix.

5. Forming the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Using a spoon, form small mounds of dough and place them on the tray, leaving a few centimeters of space between them as they will spread while baking.

6. Baking:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until they are golden around the edges. It’s important to keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on the oven.

7. Cooling and Serving:
- After baking, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. These cookies are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a festive look.

Practical Tips:
- If you want to enhance the flavor, you can also add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
- These cookies keep well in an airtight container for a few days, but they are best consumed fresh.
- You can experiment with other flavors, such as lemon zest or even grated ginger, for a more exotic variation.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- *Can I use another type of oil?* Yes, but avoid oils with strong flavors, such as nut oil.
- *How can I tell when they are done?* The cookies should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- *What can I do with leftover dough?* If you have extra dough, you can make larger cookies or freeze portions for later.

Delicious Pairings:
These tender cookies pair perfectly with a cup of orange tea or even a strong espresso. You can also serve them with vanilla ice cream or a chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert.

Nutritional Benefits:
Orange peel cookies provide a boost of vitamins from the orange peel, which is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. While they are sweet, when consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.

These tender orange peel cookies are more than just a simple dessert; they are an invitation to relax and enjoy, perfect for moments spent with loved ones. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!