Chocolate Orange Cookies (Super Easy!) Recipe

There is something truly magical about the combination of zesty orange and rich dark chocolate, and this Chocolate Orange Cookies (Super Easy!) Recipe captures that magic perfectly. These cookies bring together bright citrus flavors with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and ginger, all wrapped up in a soft, chewy texture that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who likes simple, no-fuss recipes, this delightful treat is guaranteed to become a go-to. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these cookies irresistibly delicious, you’ll only need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role – from the aromatic orange zest and juice adding fresh citrus notes to the dark chocolate lending deep, rich flavor and that perfect melty texture.

• 1 large egg: Acts as the binder, giving the cookies structure and chewiness.
• ½ cup + 1 Tbsp (110 grams) sugar: Sweetens the dough without overpowering the orange and chocolate flavors.
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) light olive oil (or your fav vegetable oil): Keeps the cookies moist and tender with a subtle fruity undertone if olive oil is used.
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) orange juice: Adds fresh citrus tang, brightening the overall flavor.
• 2 tablespoons orange zest: Provides concentrated orange aroma and extra zing.
• 1 teaspoon orange extract (or vanilla extract): Boosts the orange flavor or offers a vanilla alternative if preferred.
• 2 ⅓ cups (290 grams) all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough, ensuring good structure and chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly while keeping them soft.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a touch of lightness and lift.
• ½ scant teaspoon fine salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and an inviting spice note that complements the orange beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle spiciness, making each bite a little more exciting.
• 3 oz (80 grams) dark chocolate chips or bar pieces: Provide gooey rich pockets of chocolate that melt in your mouth.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cookies (Super Easy!) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Wet Ingredients

Start by cracking your egg into a bowl and whisking it together with sugar until slightly fluffy. Next, add your light olive oil (or chosen vegetable oil), fresh orange juice, orange zest, and orange extract. Stir everything until you get a smooth, fragrant mixture that smells like a sunny citrus grove.

Step 2: Combine Your Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, fine salt, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. This blend of spices with leavening agents ensures your cookies will have that perfect combination of soft texture and a gently spicy warmth to balance the sweetness.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Slowly add your wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here – you want a tender dough that’s well-blended but not tough. Then, fold in the dark chocolate pieces carefully so that every cookie ends up with little pockets of melty chocolate kissed by citrus notes.

Step 4: Shape and Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough evenly spaced on the sheet. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. This way, you’ll have that perfect chewy texture once cooled.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Cookies (Super Easy!) Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra orange zest or finely chopped candied orange peel on top just before baking to intensify the citrus aroma and add a slight decorative touch. Alternatively, dust a tiny pinch of powdered sugar over cooled cookies for a snowy, festive look.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea—earl grey or chamomile complement the citrus spices wonderfully. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cool.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies in a stacked pyramid on a rustic wooden board, garnished with sprigs of fresh rosemary or mint to add color and aroma. For gift-giving, wrap them in parchment paper tied with a bright orange ribbon to echo the citrus theme—it’s a simple gesture that makes the treat feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your baked cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly soft and flavorful for up to 4 days. To maintain that freshly-baked texture, place a slice of bread in the container—it helps keep moisture balanced.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for later, freeze the unbaked dough balls on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. You can also freeze fully baked cookies for up to 2 months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive your cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This warms the chocolate just right and softens the cookie nicely, almost like they were freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute the orange extract with something else?

Absolutely! If you don’t have orange extract, vanilla extract works well and will still complement the citrus zest and juice nicely.

What if I don’t have light olive oil?

You can use any mild-flavored vegetable oil such as canola or sunflower oil. Just avoid strong-flavored oils that might overpower the delicate orange notes.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

How chewy are these cookies?

They have a lovely soft and chewy texture with slightly crisp edges, all thanks to the balanced use of baking soda and baking powder and the moisture from oil and juice.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Definitely feel free to toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for some crunch that pairs well with the chocolate and orange flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that is easy, fun, and packed with unforgettable flavor, this Chocolate Orange Cookies (Super Easy!) Recipe is a true winner. The blend of citrus brightness with luscious dark chocolate feels like a treat made just for joyful moments. Give it a try—you’ll be reaching for these cookies again and again!

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