Orange cookies

Orange Cookies – An Unforgettable Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total: approx. 1 hour
Servings: 30 cookies

Welcome to the fascinating world of baking, where flavors intertwine and every ingredient tells a story. Today, I will share with you a delicious recipe for orange cookies, combining the sweetness of citrus with the crunchy texture of the biscuit. These cookies are perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee and will bring a touch of sunshine to dreary days.

A Bit of History

Orange cookies have a long-standing tradition, loved by generations. Although recipes vary, the essence remains the same: a soft cookie with citrus flavors that brings authentic joy in every bite. This recipe can be adapted for various occasions, from festive meals to a quick snack in the middle of the day.

Ingredients

- 250 g lard, butter, or shortening – for a rich texture
- 2 large oranges – bringing flavor and a note of freshness
- 250 g granulated sugar – for the perfect sweetness
- 15 g baking powder – to give them volume
- 2 eggs – the essential binding agent
- 700-800 g flour – the base of the dough
- A pinch of salt – to enhance the flavors
- Powdered sugar – for decoration

Recipe Steps

1. Sifting the dry ingredients
Start by sifting the flour, salt, and baking powder into a large bowl. This step is essential as sifting helps aerate the flour and prevents lumps. Sifted flour will ensure a fine and even texture of the dough.

2. Preparing the orange flavors
Without wasting time, take the two oranges and zest them using a fine grater to obtain fresh zest. Make sure to use organic oranges to avoid chemicals. After zesting, squeeze the juice from the oranges, keeping it separate.

3. Beating the wet ingredients
In another bowl, add the lard, butter, or shortening (the choice is yours; lard will provide a fluffier texture, while butter will add a rich flavor). Cream the fat with the sugar until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous paste. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the mixture, which will make the cookies fluffier.

4. Adding the eggs and flavors
Add the two eggs to the fat and sugar mixture, beating well to incorporate them. Now is the time to add the orange juice and zest, mixing carefully until everything is well combined. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be simply irresistible!

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients
Gradually add the flour, salt, and baking powder mixture, stirring with a spatula or your hands until a compact dough forms. It is important not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The dough should be slightly firmer but pleasant to touch.

6. Chilling the dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps firm up the fat in the dough, which will improve the final texture of the cookies. During this time, the orange scent will continue to develop, creating anticipation.

7. Shaping the cookies
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and form small balls, which you can shape as desired. I prefer to use a cookie press, but you can play with the shapes you have on hand. You can even join two balls of dough at the ends, forming round and attractive cookies.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 °C and place the cookies on an ungreased tray (you can use parchment paper if you prefer). Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden and slightly firm to the touch. Do not leave them too long, as we want to enjoy that soft texture inside.

9. Decorating
Upon removing from the oven, sprinkle powdered sugar over the cookies while they are still warm. This will not only add an attractive appearance but will also create a pleasant contrast between the sweetness of the powdered sugar and the citrus flavors.

10. Cooling and serving
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a cooling rack. These cookies are perfect to be served at a festive table or simply to indulge in on weekend evenings.

Practical Tips

- If you want to add a touch of chocolate, you can incorporate dark chocolate chunks into the dough.
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture.
- If you prefer a less fatty version, you can replace lard with coconut butter or olive oil, but the texture will be different.
- These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutritional Benefits

These orange cookies are a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C from the oranges, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Additionally, the healthy fats from butter or lard contribute to a balanced diet, and sugar, although a source of calories, provides the energy needed for daily activities. Each cookie has about 100 calories, so enjoy them in moderation!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?
Yes, lemons or grapefruits can add an interesting note of acidity.

2. Is it possible to freeze the dough?
Sure, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap.

3. Which drinks pair best with these cookies?
A citrus tea or cappuccino are excellent combinations to complement the flavor of these cookies.

In conclusion, these orange cookies are not only a simple recipe but also a way to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. The vibrant flavors and crunchy texture make them ideal for any occasion. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking!