Orange Olive Oil Cookies

There’s something truly magical about the marriage of bright citrus and fruity olive oil in baked treats, and these Orange Olive Oil Cookies are no exception. Soft, tender, and bursting with fragrant orange zest, these cookies bring a delightful twist to your everyday cookie routine. The secret lies in the olive oil, which not only adds a unique depth of flavor but also creates a luscious, moist texture that sets these cookies apart from the crowd. Plus, with a simple flaxseed “egg” to keep things wholesome and plant-based, they’re as nourishing as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, these cookies will become a go-to favorite.

Why This Orange Olive Oil Cookies Stands Out

Unlike traditional butter-laden cookies, these Orange Olive Oil Cookies shine with a subtle fruity richness derived from quality olive oil. The oil keeps them tender, while the combination of cane and brown sugar provides a perfectly balanced sweetness with hints of caramel. Adding freshly grated orange zest elevates the flavor, infusing each bite with refreshing citrus notes that enhance the cookie’s complexity. The inclusion of cornstarch along with all-purpose flour ensures a delicate crumb, and the flaxseed mixture offers a plant-based binder that contributes to the cookie’s wonderful chewiness without the need for eggs. This recipe is simple, wholesome, and irresistibly flavorful — everything you want in a cookie.

The Essentials

• Ground flaxseed: Acts as a vegan-friendly binder, replacing eggs for structure and moisture.
• Water: Combined with flaxseed to create a flax “egg.”
• Cane sugar: Provides clean, pure sweetness with a slight molasses undertone.
• Orange zest: Use zest from about 1 navel orange for a fresh, aromatic punch.
• Brown sugar: Adds moisture and depth with its caramel notes.
• Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its fruity flavor that enhances the cookie’s profile.
• Vanilla extract: Brings a warm, inviting aroma that complements orange beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: Spoon and level for accurate measurement to ensure perfect texture.
• Cornstarch: Adds tenderness and a light crumb to the cookies.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Provide gentle leavening for a soft rise.
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls: At least two — one for wet ingredients and one for dry.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurement is key for baking success.
• Microplane or fine grater: For zesting the orange.
• Whisk and spatula: For mixing ingredients smoothly.
• Baking sheet: A rimmed cookie sheet to keep cookies contained and bake evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking.
• Cooling rack: To cool cookies completely without sogginess.

Method: Orange Olive Oil Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the flaxseed egg

In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2 1/2 tablespoons water. Stir well and let sit for 5-10 minutes until thickened and gel-like. This will act as your egg substitute, providing structure and moisture.

Step 2: Mix the sugars and wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons cane sugar and 1/2 cup brown sugar until combined. Add the flaxseed mixture, 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the orange zest

Using a microplane or fine grater, zest the peel of 1 navel orange directly into the wet ingredients. Stir to distribute the vibrant zest evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup plus 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Mixing the leaveners with the flour ensures an even rise.

Step 5: Incorporate dry into wet

Add the dry ingredients gradually into the wet mixture. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 6: Chill the dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading during baking.

Step 7: Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 8: Shape and bake cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Step 9: Cool and enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Swap cane sugar for coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index alternative.
• Use whole wheat pastry flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduce sugar by 1/4 cup if you prefer less sweetness without sacrificing texture.
• Try using a light olive oil to mellow the flavor for those who prefer a less pronounced olive taste.
• Add a tablespoon of ground chia seeds along with flaxseed for an omega-3 boost.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Cookies spreading too much: Make sure your dough is chilled well before baking; warm dough causes excessive spreading.
• Cookies too dry: Measure flour carefully by spooning into the cup and leveling; too much flour can dry out cookies.
• Flat cookies: Check your baking powder and soda for freshness; expired leavening agents lose potency.
• Overly bitter olive oil flavor: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity profile or a lighter version if preferred.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store your Orange Olive Oil Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore softness and aroma. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a bag once firm; bake from frozen adding a couple minutes to the baking time.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why did my cookies turn out cakey instead of chewy?

Cakey cookies usually result from using too much flour or overmixing the dough. Make sure to measure flour correctly using the spoon and level method, and gently fold ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender, chewy texture.

Can I use regular eggs instead of flaxseed in this recipe?

Yes! If you prefer, substitute one large egg for the flaxseed “egg.” Keep in mind this will slightly change the texture and flavor but will still produce delicious results.

What’s the best way to zest an orange for this recipe?

A microplane grater is ideal for zesting as it finely shreds the peel without the bitter white pith. If you don’t have one, use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove strips of the peel, then mince finely.

How can I intensify the orange flavor in these cookies?

Adding a teaspoon of orange extract or a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice can amplify the citrus notes. Be cautious with juice amounts to avoid altering dough consistency.

Keep Cooking

• Love vibrant citrus baked goods? Try the Orange Cardamom Zucchini Scones for a fragrant, moist treat.
• If you’re a fan of cookies with a twist, discover the chewy and nutty Chocolate Amaretti Cookies for your next bake.

Bring It to the Table

The subtle elegance of these Orange Olive Oil Cookies makes them perfect for sharing. Plate them alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for an inviting afternoon snack, or pack them into pretty tins as thoughtful gifts. Their refreshing citrus notes and delicate crumb make them a delightful accompaniment to brunch spreads or holiday cookie trays. Pair these cookies with a light salad or fruit platter to balance their sweetness, and watch how they quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

These Orange Olive Oil Cookies strike the perfect balance of bright citrus flavor, tender texture, and wholesome ingredients. With their simple preparation and unique flavor profile, they’re a delightful treat you’ll want to bake again and again. Whether you’re new to olive oil baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a fresh take on classic cookies that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!

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