When it comes to creating sweet delights that are both satisfying and easy to whip up, Orange Marmalade Drops are a delightful option to consider. These delightful cookies are a perfect combination of tangy orange flavor and sweet marmalade, creating a delicious treat that is perfect for an afternoon tea, a cozy gathering, or simply as a delightful snack. These cookies are simple to make and will fill your home with a warm and inviting aroma while baking. Let’s dive right in and learn how to create these delightful Orange Marmalade Drops.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup orange marmalade
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set the bowl aside.
3. In a separate larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a stand mixer until light and fluffy. This step helps create a light and airy texture for your cookies.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and continue to beat until well incorporated. The egg adds richness to the dough, while the vanilla extract provides a lovely aroma.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
6. Using a tablespoon-sized scoop or a spoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart. Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
7. Fill each indentation with a small amount of orange marmalade, about 1/2 teaspoon for each cookie. The marmalade will add a burst of citrus flavor to each bite and create a stunning presentation.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be sure not to overbake the cookies to maintain a soft and chewy texture.
9. Once baked, remove the Orange Marmalade Drops from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Optionally, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a decorative touch before serving. The powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness to these delightful treats.
Enjoy these Orange Marmalade Drops with a cup of tea or coffee, or pack them up in a beautiful tin to give as a thoughtful gift to friends and family. These cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire, bringing a burst of sunshine to any occasion. Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these delicious, citrusy delights!