Orange Drop Cookies : A Sweet Delightful Christmas Tradition!

🍊 Kitchies! Today, we’re bringing you a delightful treat straight from KMT’s kitchen — Russian-inspired Orange Drop Cookies.

Bursting with the citrusy goodness of orange juice and zest, these cookies are not just a recipe; they’re a piece of Christmas heritage. Join us on this journey to create a batch of these sweet delights that have been cherished through generations. Because, as Barb says, sharing is caring! 🌲✨

In the heart of this recipe lies the warmth of Russian tradition, blended with the zesty twist of orange. Imagine a perfect harmony of shortening, sugar, and the refreshing notes of citrus. These cookies, a Christmas tradition, are more than just a treat; they’re a connection to family stories and festive cheer. Let’s dive into the joy of making and sharing these Orange Drop Cookies! 🍪🧡

Cuisine: Russian
Servings: Makes several cookies

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes

So, let’s get started KMT Show 🌟! Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe so special :

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup shortening
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Icing:

• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

It’s time to put on your KMT chef’s hat 👩‍🍳 and start create your own version, Kitchies!! Simply follow these easy-peasy steps! 🍽️

How to Make Easy Delish Orange Drop Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease your cookie sheets to get ready for a baking adventure.
2. Mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in 1/2 cup orange juice and 1 teaspoon orange zest into this delightful flour mixture.
3. Cream shortening and white sugar together until they become the dynamic duo of your cookie dough dreams. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
4. Slowly blend the flour mixture into the egg-sugar goodness. This is where the magic happens! Drop spoonfuls of this citrusy concoction onto your greased cookie sheet.
5. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, letting the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your kitchen with joy.

Now, let’s create the icing symphony:

1. Mix confectioner’s sugar and 2 tablespoons of butter until you achieve a smooth, velvety texture.
2. Pour in 2 tablespoons of orange juice and 1 teaspoon of orange zest into this sugary wonderland. Mix until your icing reaches the peak of citrus perfection.
3. Once your cookies have cooled, generously spread this citrus-infused icing over the tops of the cookies. Get ready for an explosion of flavor!

There you have it – a plate full of Russian-inspired Orange Drop Cookies that are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Share them with loved ones and make every day a special occasion! 🍪🍊

Master this recipe like a Pro/Expert with these helpful Tips: 🎓💡

KM’Tips for Cookie Bliss:

• Zest it Up: Don’t skimp on the orange zest – it’s the secret ingredient for that burst of citrusy freshness.
• Sip and Stir: Enjoy a sip of your favorite beverage while stirring up the cookie batter – it’s a sweet ritual.
• Generous Icing: Don’t hold back on the icing – let it generously cascade over your cookies for that perfect finishing touch.

Substitutions and Variations :

• Citrus Twist: Experiment with lemon or lime zest for a different citrus flavor.
• Nuts Galore: Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
• Spiced Delight: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture for a spiced version.

Wanna Make a Healthier Version :

For those looking for a healthier twist, you can make a few adjustments to this recipe. Here are some suggestions :

• Buttery Swap: Opt for a plant-based butter substitute for a lighter touch.
• Whole Grain Magic: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier taste.
• Reduced Sugar: Cut down on sugar in the icing for a less sweet option.

And there you have it! A batch of Russian-inspired Orange Drop Cookies, a delightful blend of tradition and zest. As you generously spread the icing over the cooled cookies, remember the joy of sharing these treats with loved ones. For more recipes that add a touch of warmth to your celebrations, explore our collection. Happy baking! 🌟🍊

Are you curious about anything else❓🤔 Take a look at the most frequently questions Below we get about this recipe:

FAQs :

• Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
  • Absolutely! Shape the dough into balls, freeze, and bake whenever you crave fresh cookies.
• What’s the key to getting a perfect citrus flavor in the cookies?
  • Freshness is key! Use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest for the best citrusy kick.
• Can I use margarine instead of shortening?
  • Yes, margarine can be a suitable substitute, but it might alter the texture slightly.
• How long do these cookies stay fresh?
  • Stored in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for up to a week.
• Can I skip the icing for a less sweet option?
  • Certainly! The cookies are delightful on their own, or you can dust them with powdered sugar.
• Any tips for ensuring the cookies are uniformly sized?
  • Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure consistent sizes for even baking.
• Can I make the dough ahead and refrigerate it?
  • Yes, refrigerate the dough for an hour or two for easier handling and enhanced flavor.
• What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
  • Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for lasting freshness.
• What makes these cookies Russian?
  • The delightful combination of orange zest and juice adds a unique twist inspired by Russian flavors.
• Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
  • Absolutely! Spread the citrusy love by doubling the ingredients for a bigger batch of happiness.