If you have a soft spot for bright, zesty desserts that feel like a burst of sunshine, you’re going to absolutely adore this Orange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting Recipe. These cookies combine a tender, buttery base infused with fresh orange zest and juice, perfectly complemented by a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting with just the right hint of creamsicle charm. Each bite is a delightful dance of citrusy brightness and creamy sweetness, making these cookies an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon snack or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Orange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting Recipe keeps things simple with a handful of essential ingredients, each chosen to deliver exceptional flavor and texture. From the rich, nutty browned butter to the bright pop of fresh orange zest, every component plays a crucial role in bringing these cookies to life.
- Butter (1/2 cup): Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that makes these cookies truly special.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to balance the citrus.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Gives sweetness and helps with the cookie’s texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all flavors and adds warmth.
- Orange zest (1 tsp): Provides an intense burst of fresh citrus aroma.
- Orange juice (1/4 cup): Brings natural brightness and moisture to the dough.
- Egg yolk (1): Enriches the dough and helps bind everything together.
- Gluten free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum (1½ cup + 2 tbsp): Ensures a tender but sturdy gluten-free cookie.
- Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Aids in the dough’s gentle rise.
- Baking soda (1/4 tsp): Helps cookies develop a lovely golden color and slight crisp edges.
- Sea salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- Cream cheese at room temperature (4 oz): The star of the frosting, lending creaminess and tang.
- Butter at room temperature (2 tbsp): Adds smooth richness to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the frosting and gives it that luscious texture.
- Additional orange juice (1 tbsp plus more if needed): Lightens the frosting and enhances the citrus notes.
- Orange zest for garnish (1/2 tsp plus more): Adds the finishing touch of fresh flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Orange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5 to 8 minutes while stirring frequently. You’ll notice it foaming and then turning a rich golden brown with small browned bits at the bottom—this is where the magic happens. Pour the browned butter into a large mixing bowl and let it cool for about 10 minutes to prevent melting the sugars when added next.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Once the butter has cooled, whisk in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, orange juice, and egg yolk until you have a smooth, fragrant mixture. This blend is the foundation of the cookie’s moist texture and vibrant flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the gluten free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Stir them together well so your cookies will rise evenly and have just the right crumbly texture.
Step 4: Make the Dough
Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender and soft.
Step 5: Shape and Bake Your Cookies
Scoop the dough using about 1½ tablespoons per cookie and roll into balls. Place each about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet to allow even spreading. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 12 to 14 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers have a slight crackled appearance. Let them cool on the sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare Creamsicle Frosting
In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth and creamy. Adjust the orange juice if the frosting feels too thick, aiming for a spreadable but stable texture.
Step 7: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are fully cooled, generously spread the frosting on top. Garnish with a little extra orange zest for a fresh, colorful finish.
How to Serve Orange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely grated orange zest or a thin slice of candied orange peel makes a beautiful garnish that also boosts the citrus aroma. For a festive twist, try decorating with tiny orange candy pieces or edible flowers for an elegant look.
Side Dishes
These cookies are delightful alongside a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee, where the warm beverage balances the cool tang of the creamsicle frosting. For a special occasion, pair them with vanilla bean ice cream or a light citrus sorbet to keep the citrus theme going.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these cookies into pretty towers tied with colorful ribbons for gifting or parties. If you want to add a playful touch, arrange them on a platter with orange slices, mint leaves, and edible blossoms to create an eye-catching dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your frosted cookies in an airtight container layered with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness and frosting consistency.
Freezing
Freeze unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap once frozen. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag. If already frosted, freeze the cookies separately with parchment paper between layers to protect the delicate frosting. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
For a warm treat, gently heat your cookie for about 10 seconds in the microwave to soften slightly. Avoid heating too long, especially if frosted, as the cream cheese topping might melt.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies without gluten?
Absolutely! This Orange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting Recipe uses gluten free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum to achieve a tender yet sturdy cookie perfect for gluten-sensitive bakers.
Is it possible to make the frosting dairy-free?
Yes. Swap regular butter and cream cheese for vegan alternatives to make a delicious dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Can I add mix-ins to the cookie dough?
Definitely! White chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts like pecans or almonds add wonderful texture and flavor alongside the orange.
What if my dough feels too sticky to handle?
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This makes it much easier to scoop and shape without it sticking to your hands.
Should I frost the cookies while they are still warm?
It’s best to let the cookies cool completely before frosting them. Frosting warm cookies can cause it to melt and lose its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting Recipe is a downright joyful baking adventure that fills your kitchen with citrusy sweetness and invites warm memories with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try — whether for sharing with friends or treating yourself, these cookies promise a happy burst of flavor that’s simply unforgettable.
PrintOrange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting Recipe
Delight in these Orange Cookies with Creamsicle Frosting, featuring a perfect balance of browned butter, bright orange zest, and juicy orange juice. These gluten-free cookies are soft, slightly crisp on the edges, and topped with a creamy orange cream cheese frosting, making them an irresistible dessert treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 21 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 egg yolk
- 1½ cup + 2 tbsp gluten free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese at room temperature
- 2 tbsp butter at room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp orange juice plus more if needed
- 1/2 tsp orange zest plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Brown the butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch closely as the butter foams, then turns golden brown with brown milk solids forming. Once browned, quickly transfer it to a large mixing bowl to stop cooking.
- Mix wet ingredients: Let the browned butter cool for about 10 minutes. Then add brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, orange juice, and the egg yolk. Whisk these together until smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt until thoroughly mixed.
- Make the dough: Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Shape the cookies: Using a 1½ tablespoon scoop, portion the dough and roll into balls by hand. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes until edges are golden and centers look puffed with slight cracks.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare frosting: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add more orange juice if the frosting is too thick.
- Frost the cookies: Once cooled, generously frost each cookie and sprinkle additional orange zest on top for garnish.
Notes
- Frost cookies only once fully cooled to prevent the frosting from melting.
- To make these cookies dairy-free, substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest enhance flavor best.
- If dough is sticky, chilling for 20-30 minutes will make handling easier.
- Ensure browned butter is cool before mixing with sugars to avoid melting.
- Optional mix-ins include white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Dough can be rolled out and cut with cookie cutters for shaped festive cookies.
- Store frosted cookies in a single layer refrigerated for a few hours, then stack with parchment paper in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then wrap and store in freezer bags with parchment layers; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
