ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything together to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until smooth. Then, add the fresh orange juice and the orange zest to the wet mixture. If you want a more intense orange flavor, you can also include orange extract at this stage. Whisk until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to combine. The dough should start to come together into a soft, slightly sticky dough. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches a smooth, dough-like consistency. The dough should be soft, but not too sticky to handle.
4. Chill the Dough:
Once the dough is mixed and smooth, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to shape the cookies and preventing them from spreading too much during baking.
5. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
6. Shape the Cookies:
After the dough has chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you prefer a flatter cookie, gently press down on the dough balls with the back of a spoon or your fingers to flatten them slightly.
7. Bake the Cookies:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. The cookies will firm up slightly as they cool, so don’t worry if they still feel soft when you take them out of the oven.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once the cookies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You’ll Love Orange Cookies Without Eggs or Butter:
1. Perfect for Vegan and Dairy-Free Diets:
These orange cookies are naturally vegan, as they contain no eggs or dairy products. They are a great option for people who follow a vegan diet or those who are lactose intolerant. You can enjoy the fresh citrusy flavor without worrying about any animal-derived ingredients.
2. Fresh and Zesty Flavor:
The key to these cookies is the orange. The combination of fresh orange juice and orange zest gives the cookies a refreshing burst of citrus flavor that is both tangy and sweet. The cookies have a vibrant orange aroma as they bake, filling your kitchen with a delightful scent!
3. Soft and Chewy Texture:
Despite being eggless and butter-free, these cookies have a wonderfully soft and chewy texture. The oil used in place of butter keeps them tender, while the baking soda and baking powder give them a light, airy quality.
4. Simple and Quick to Make:
These cookies are incredibly easy to make, with just a handful of simple ingredients. They don’t require complex techniques or fancy equipment. In just 40 minutes, you can have a batch of homemade cookies ready to enjoy!
5. Perfect for All Occasions:
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual treat, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these orange cookies are versatile and perfect for any event. Their zesty, citrus flavor is perfect for summer gatherings, holiday parties, or a mid-afternoon snack.
6. Customizable:
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add ingredients like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of glazed icing over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, like lemon or lime, for a refreshing twist.
Tips for the Best Orange Cookies:
- Use Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly grated orange zest. The natural oils in the zest are what provide that aromatic, intense orange flavor, which is key to making these cookies stand out.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the dough, be sure to avoid overmixing it. Overworking the dough can result in dense cookies. Simply mix until the ingredients are combined and the dough is smooth.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Since every oven is different, start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark to ensure the cookies don’t burn.
- Store Properly: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze the dough and bake the cookies later, making it a convenient option when you’re craving something sweet!
Final Thoughts:
These Orange Cookies Without Eggs or Butter are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth with a light, tangy treat that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking for a simple and delicious snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit. With their soft texture, bright orange flavor, and simple ingredients, they’re a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.
Try making these eggless, butter-free cookies today, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus in every bite!
