Vegan Orange Cookie Recipe: A Burst of Sunshine in Every Bite

These vegan orange cookies are a delicious and easy treat that will brighten any day. Bursting with fresh citrus flavor, these chewy cookies are perfect for a midday snack, a dessert with tea, or even a festive holiday treat. This Vegan Orange Cookie Recipe proves that plant-based baking can be just as satisfying and flavorful as traditional baking. Ready to bring a little sunshine into your kitchen? Let’s get baking!

Similar to this easy gluten free coconut cookie recipe, these vegan orange cookies come together quickly and require minimal ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a batch of these delightful treats.

The Magic of Citrus in Vegan Baking

Citrus fruits, especially oranges, add a unique zest and vibrancy to baked goods. The combination of sweetness and tanginess creates a complex flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Think about your favorite orange-flavored treats – the bright aroma, the soft texture, and that burst of sunshine in every bite. Now imagine achieving that same deliciousness in a completely vegan way. It’s easier than you think! This vegan orange cookie recipe is a testament to the power of citrus in plant-based baking.

Vegan Orange Cookies: Zesting Oranges into a Bowl

Choosing the Right Oranges for Your Vegan Orange Cookie Recipe

Not all oranges are created equal. For the best flavor, opt for navel oranges or Valencia oranges. These varieties are known for their sweetness and juicy flesh, which translates to a more intense orange flavor in your cookies. Have you ever noticed how the smell of a freshly peeled orange can instantly lift your mood? That’s the magic we’re capturing in these cookies. For an even more intense citrus experience, consider adding a touch of orange zest to the dough – it’s like a secret ingredient that takes the flavor to the next level. Curious about incorporating zest? Learn more about How to add citrus zest to cookies.

Ingredients for Vegan Orange Cookies

• 1 cup vegan butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the vegan butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Scooping Vegan Orange Cookie Dough onto Baking Sheet

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Orange Cookies

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Just like with traditional baking, using room temperature ingredients is key to achieving a smooth and even dough.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Chilling the Dough (Optional): If you prefer a thicker cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Variations on the Vegan Orange Cookie Recipe

• Glazed Orange Cookies: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple orange glaze over the cooled cookies. You can make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
• Cranberry Orange Cookies: Add a festive twist by folding in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the dough.
• Chocolate Orange Cookies: Combine the bright citrus flavor with the richness of chocolate by adding 1/2 cup of vegan chocolate chips to the dough. This combination is truly divine! For chocolate lovers, our chocolate chip cookie recipe is another must-try.

Why You’ll Love this Vegan Orange Cookie Recipe

These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight snacks to festive holiday gatherings. They’re also a great way to showcase the deliciousness of vegan baking. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a batch of sunshine!

Baked Vegan Orange Cookies Cooling on a Wire Rack

FAQs about Vegan Orange Cookies

Q: Can I use a different type of citrus fruit?

A: Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or grapefruits. Keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness will vary depending on the fruit you choose.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

A: Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For some inspiration, check out our collection of gluten free shortbread cookie recipes. You might also be interested in our dedicated gluten free orange cookie recipe.

Q: How should I store these cookies?

A: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Vegan Orange Cookies Stored in a Glass Jar

This vegan orange cookie recipe is a true testament to the fact that plant-based baking doesn’t have to compromise on flavor or texture. With its bright, cheerful taste, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. So what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven and let the citrus magic begin!