These Orange Cookies with Chocolate Chips are soft, fragrant, and bursting with citrusy flavor. They’re the kind of cookies that feel both nostalgic and refreshingly different—perfect with a cup of tea, for afternoon snacking, or as a sweet treat during the holidays. With a chewy texture and a delicate orange aroma, every bite is brightened by a pop of chocolate. Simple, quick, and made with pantry staples, they’ll disappear fast!
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavor from real orange zest and juice.
- Soft, chewy texture with a tender crumb.
- Chocolate chips make them irresistible for kids and adults alike.
- No butter needed—they're made with oil for a lighter bite.
- Perfect for everyday snacking, holiday trays, or gifting.
What Are Orange Cookies?
Orange cookies are a citrus-forward twist on traditional soft cookies. Made with fresh orange juice and zest, they have a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate chips. Unlike butter-based cookies, this recipe uses vegetable oil, making them extra soft and moist. Popular across many European and Mediterranean households, especially during citrus season, these cookies are proof that simple ingredients can deliver exceptional results.
Pro Tips for the Best Orange Cookies
- Use a fresh, juicy orange: You’ll need both the zest and juice for flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dough once the flour is added to avoid dense cookies.
- Use mini chocolate chips for even distribution, but any size works.
- Chill the dough briefly if it's too sticky to shape.
- Dust with powdered sugar before baking for a lightly crisp, sweet exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use orange extract instead of zest?
Yes, but fresh zest gives a stronger, more natural citrus aroma. If using extract, start with ½ teaspoon.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
They already are! With no butter or milk, they’re perfect for dairy-free diets.
What type of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips pair beautifully with the sweet orange notes. You can also try white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
How do I keep the cookies soft?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature. A slice of bread added to the container will help retain moisture.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen—just add 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
How to Store Orange Cookies
Once cooled, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft, place a slice of fresh bread in the container—it prevents the cookies from drying out.
How to Freeze Orange Cookies
You can freeze both baked cookies and unbaked dough balls:
- To freeze baked cookies: Let them cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
- To freeze dough: Form the cookies, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.
Ingredients
How to Make Orange Cookies with Chocolate Chips
;Resize,width=712;)
In a large bowl, mix the egg, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vegetable oil, and baking powder using a fork until well blended.
In a large bowl, mix the egg, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vegetable oil, and baking powder using a fork until well blended.
;Resize,width=712;)
Gradually add the flour and stir until the dough starts to come together. Switch to kneading by hand once it thickens.
Gradually add the flour and stir until the dough starts to come together. Switch to kneading by hand once it thickens.
;Resize,width=712;)
Gently mix the chocolate chips into the dough with a spatula.
Gently mix the chocolate chips into the dough with a spatula.
;Resize,width=712;)
Form small dough balls by hand and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Form small dough balls by hand and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
;Resize,width=712;)
Sprinkle the tops with powdered sugar. Bake at 360°F (180°C) for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden on the bottom.
Sprinkle the tops with powdered sugar. Bake at 360°F (180°C) for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden on the bottom.
;Resize,width=712;)
Let cookies cool on a wire rack. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Let cookies cool on a wire rack. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
;Resize,width=767;)
