Soft and Delicate Yogurt Cookies

Yogurt cookies come together with simple ingredients yet deliver a texture that feels tender. The dough is enriched with plain yogurt, scented with orange zest and vanilla, then shaped into charming little rounds before baked. You can enjoy them with your afternoon tea or at casual gatherings.

What Are Yogurt Cookies?

Yogurt cookies are soft-baked treats made with yogurt incorporated directly into the dough, which gives them a moist crumb. Unlike crisp butter cookies, these have a delicate interior and a light structure thanks to the balance of eggs, baking powder, and dairy. This style of cookie is popular in many European home kitchens, where yogurt is often used in cakes and biscuits to create softness without excessive butter.

Pro Tips for the Best Yogurt Cookies

• Use full-fat plain yogurt for a richer texture and better structure. Low-fat yogurt can make the dough slightly stickier.
• Chill the dough properly. The one-hour rest in the fridge helps firm up the butter and makes shaping easier.
• Dust with powdered sugar only after cooling, so it doesn’t melt into the surface.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dough too sticky to handle?

If your dough feels overly sticky, it may need more chilling time. Refrigerating it for an extra 20-30 minutes usually solves the problem. You can also lightly flour your hands when shaping the balls.

Can I skip the orange zest?

Yes, the orange zest can be omitted or replaced with lemon zest for a different citrus note. The zest mainly adds fragrance and brightness rather than sweetness. If skipping it entirely, consider increasing the vanilla slightly for flavor balance.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should remain pale with only a light golden tone at the base. If they brown too much on top, they may become dry. Gently press one cookie, and if it feels set but still soft, it is ready.

How to Store Yogurt Cookies

They can last on your counter for up to 4 days. Keep them in a single layer or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigerating baked cookies, as this can dry them out.

How to Make Yogurt Cookies

Step 1

Step 1

Whisk plain yogurt, eggs, and sugar. Stir in the vanilla extract and freshly grated orange zest.

Whisk plain yogurt, eggs, and sugar. Stir in the vanilla extract and freshly grated orange zest.

Step 2

Step 2

Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing with the whisk at first.

Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing with the whisk at first.

Step 3

Step 3

When the dough becomes too firm to mix, use your hands to gently knead until smooth and soft.

When the dough becomes too firm to mix, use your hands to gently knead until smooth and soft.

Step 4

Step 4

Divide the dough into small portions, about 25g each. Roll into balls and use the end of a spoon to gently press a small hole in the center of each ball. Then, place them on a lined baking tray.

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 5

Step 5

Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Divide the dough into small portions, about 25g each. Roll into balls and use the end of a spoon to gently press a small hole in the center of each ball. Then, place them on a lined baking tray.

Step 6

Step 6

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.

Step 7

Step 7

Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.