Orangenplätzchen Orange Cookies

There’s a special kind of magic that comes with the holiday season, and for many, it involves the comforting aroma of freshly baked treats filling the kitchen. In Austria, Christmas is a time when families come together to create delicious sweets to share and enjoy. One delightful tradition is making Orangenplätzchen, also known as Orange Cookies. These delicate cookies are infused with the bright and zesty flavor of oranges, making them a perfect addition to any festive gathering.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– Zest of 2 oranges
– 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. The mixture should be pale in color and creamy.

2. Add the orange zest and fresh orange juice to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well to combine, ensuring that the orange flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the bowl, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

4. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice it into cookies, about 1/4 inch thick. You can also roll out the dough and use cookie cutters for different shapes.

7. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.

8. Bake the Orangenplätzchen in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies can become dry.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once the Orangenplätzchen have cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a final touch of sweetness and a festive appearance.

And there you have it – a delightful batch of Orangenplätzchen, ready to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, or shared with loved ones as a thoughtful homemade gift. These Orange Cookies are sure to bring a touch of holiday cheer to your home and create lasting memories with each delicious bite. Happy baking!