Best Christmas Cookies with Orange Zest

Hey there, cookie lovers!

The holidays are creeping up, and you know what that means—time for some festive baking!

Today, I’m excited to share my special recipe for Christmas cookies with orange zest.

These cookies are soft, sweet, and packed with that delightful citrus flavor.

They’re perfect for sharing or just enjoying with a cup of cocoa.

So, let’s get into the holiday spirit and whip up a batch together!

christmas cookies with orange zest
Image: mollyshomeguide.com / Photographer Molly

Preparation Time 30-45 minutes
Cooking Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50-65 minutes
Level of Difficulty Medium

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (455g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (135g) confectioner’s sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
  • 170g almonds
  • 4 and 1/2 cups (625g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • Orange blossom water for spraying after baked
  • Confectioner’s sugar for dusting

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Trays and Roast the Almonds

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line 2-3 baking trays with parchment paper.

Spread 170g of whole almonds on one of the trays and roast them in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes until they become fragrant.

Allow the almonds to cool completely before proceeding.

Step 2: Process the Almonds and Mix the Butter

Once the almonds have cooled, pulse them in a food processor until finely chopped.

Set the chopped almonds aside.

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add 1 pound (455g) of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup (135g) of confectioner’s sugar, 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of orange blossom water.

Begin mixing on low speed, then increase to high speed and beat until the mixture becomes fluffy, which should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 4 and 1/2 cups (625g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 3 teaspoons of baking powder.

Gradually add this flour mixture to the butter mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed.

Step 4: Incorporate the Almonds and Form the Dough

When about 1 cup of the flour mixture remains, combine it with the chopped almonds.

Add this combination to the mixer and beat until a cohesive dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a clean work surface and lightly knead it to incorporate any remaining crumbs or unincorporated almonds.

Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Form the dough into balls, each weighing approximately 30-40g, and place them on the prepared baking trays.

For an optional touch, press the center of each ball down with your index finger to create an indentation, or shape them into crescents by rolling each ball into a small rope and bending it into a crescent shape.

Bake the cookies on the center rack of the oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden.

Step 6: Finish and Serve the Cookies

Optionally, spray the freshly baked cookies lightly with orange blossom water as soon as they come out of the oven.

Once the cookies have slightly cooled, generously dust them with confectioner’s sugar.

Serve the cookies with Greek coffee and enjoy.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

christmas cookies with orange zest
Image: mollyshomeguide.com / Photographer Molly

christmas cookies with orange zest
Image: mollyshomeguide.com / Photographer Molly

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