Chocolate and orange biscuits

Chocolate Orange Cookies

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 24 cookies

Chocolate orange cookies are a delicacy that combines the intense flavor of dark chocolate with the freshness and vibrancy of orange zest. This quick dessert is perfect for moments when you need something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Besides the wonderful taste, these cookies are also very easy to make, being a simple recipe ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers.

A bit of history

Cookies have a long history, originating in ancient times when they were made from grains and water. Over time, recipes have diversified, and the addition of ingredients such as chocolate and citrus has brought new life to this culinary tradition. The combination of chocolate and orange is not only delicious but also an inspired choice, as the two flavors complement each other perfectly.

Necessary ingredients

- 250 g flour
- 50 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 packet baking powder
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- Zest of one orange (preferably organic)
- 100 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa is an excellent choice)
- 130 g butter (soft, at room temperature)

For decoration (optional)

- Powdered sugar
- Candied orange peel

Step by step for perfect cookies

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter, to incorporate easily. If you forgot to take the butter out of the fridge, a quick solution is to grate it, which will make it easier to mix.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. This will ensure a fluffy texture for the cookies. Mix well to avoid lumps.

3. Add the wet ingredients: In the same bowl, add the soft butter, beaten egg, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to incorporate the ingredients until you achieve a smooth mixture.

4. Incorporate the flavors: Grate the orange zest directly into the dough. The citrus aroma will add a refreshing note to the cookies. Then, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and add it to the dough. Mix well so that the chocolate is evenly distributed.

5. Chill the dough: Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in aluminum foil. Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the butter to firm up, helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

6. Roll out the dough: After the chilling time has passed, preheat the oven to 180°C. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 5 mm thick. Make sure the dough doesn’t stick to the surface, adding more flour if necessary.

7. Cut out the cookies: Using cookie cutters or a glass, cut different shapes from the dough. Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to expand during baking.

8. Bake the cookies: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cookies are ready when the edges turn slightly golden, but the center should remain soft.

9. Cool and serve: Once the cookies are done, let them cool on a wire rack. They will firm up as they cool. If desired, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a more elegant appearance.

Useful tips

- Variations: If you want to try a different flavor, you can replace the orange zest with lemon zest or cinnamon for a warmer note. You can also add chopped nuts or almonds for extra texture.
- Serving combinations: These cookies pair perfectly with a cup of citrus tea or aromatic coffee. You can also serve them with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Storage: The cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to a week, but they are so delicious that you’ll want to enjoy them right away!

Nutritional benefits

These chocolate orange cookies are not only a culinary delight but also a good source of energy due to dark chocolate, which contains antioxidants and can have heart health benefits. The orange zest brings vitamins C and A, essential for strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, white chocolate will add a different, sweeter flavor, but the cookies will still be delicious.

2. Can I make the cookies vegan?
You can substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and the egg with a banana or a mixture of flaxseeds with water.

3. What other flavors can I add?
You can experiment with ground ginger, cardamom, or even rum essence for added complexity.

Regardless of the occasion, these chocolate orange cookies are an excellent choice that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy the perfect combination of chocolate and citrus! Enjoy!