Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Orange and Ginger Cookies are not just another sweet treat - they're a tantalizing journey of vibrant citrus and warm, spicy ginger that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp cookie that bursts with bright orange zest and a subtle, warming ginger kick that leaves you craving more. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your cookie game and impress everyone from family to friends.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until fully incorporated. Mix in the orange zest, ground ginger, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chopped crystallized ginger using a spatula, distributing it evenly throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cookie texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the dough just until ingredients are combined to keep cookies tender and prevent toughness.
- Zest Matters: Use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor - avoid the white pith which can taste bitter.
- Crystallized Ginger Tip: Chop crystallized ginger finely to distribute the spicy-sweet flavor evenly throughout the cookies.
- Consistent Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly and look professionally made.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to prevent breaking.
- Storage Hack: Place a piece of bread in your airtight container to help keep cookies soft and fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg