If you’ve been hunting for a delightful treat that bursts with vibrant flavors and luscious texture, look no further than this Blood Orange Cookies with Creamy Citrus Frosting Recipe. The bright, tangy notes of fresh blood orange zest and juice infuse each cookie with a refreshing twist, while the velvety cream cheese frosting adds the perfect touch of decadence. Baking these beauties isn’t just about making cookies—it’s about creating a joyful experience filled with fragrant citrus, rich sweetness, and a soft, tender crumb that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. From the deep caramel notes of brown sugar to the zingy pop of blood orange zest, these kitchen essentials come together wonderfully to make these cookies unforgettable.
- Light Brown Sugar (120 g): Adds caramel depth and helps create a soft, chewy texture.
- Blood Orange Zest (zest of 2 oranges): Provides a fragrant citrus aroma and vibrant flavor that defines the recipe.
- Unsalted Butter (90 g, room temperature): Ensures richness and tender crumb while allowing the dough to mix smoothly.
- Egg (1 large): Binds ingredients and adds moisture; can swap for a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a subtle sweetness and warmth.
- All-Purpose Flour (160 g): Structure for the cookies; gluten-free blend works if needed.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp): Gives a gentle lift for a light texture.
- Salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- Cold Cubed Unsalted Butter (28 g): Creates a tender, flaky sensation in the blood orange curd.
- Granulated Sugar (65 g): Sweetness for the curd with a clean, bright profile.
- Blood Orange Zest (zest of 1 orange): Intensifies the curd’s citrus punch.
- Fresh Blood Orange Juice (40 g): Delivers natural acidity and brightness.
- Egg Yolks (2 large): Key for thickening and richness in the curd.
- Salt (â…› tsp): A little boost to balance flavors in the curd.
- Cream Cheese (100 g, room temperature): The creamy foundation of the frosting.
- Unsalted Butter (42 g, room temperature): Adds smoothness to the frosting’s texture.
- Salt (⅛ tsp): Sharpens the frosting’s sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar (160 g): Sweet and silky, perfect for a luscious frosting consistency.
- Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Adds a delicate fragrance to the frosting; almond extract is a nice twist.
How to Make Blood Orange Cookies with Creamy Citrus Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by combining the light brown sugar and blood orange zest in a large bowl, rubbing them together gently to unlock those essential citrus oils that will imbue the dough with its signature fragrance. Then, add the softened butter and beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy—this step ensures your cookies will be tender and airy. Next, stir in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Finally, fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing just until everything comes together. Wrap the dough and chill it for about 30 minutes; this resting time helps intensify the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle.
Step 2: Make the Blood Orange Curd
While the dough chills, turn your attention to the curd, a luxurious citrus spread that elevates these cookies beyond ordinary. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and blood orange zest and stir to release the bright aroma. Add the fresh blood orange juice, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly to prevent scrambling. Within minutes, the mixture thickens beautifully—strain it to keep the texture silky smooth. Stir in the cold cubed butter until fully melted and incorporated, then chill the curd so it can firm up and become luscious for topping.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion about three tablespoons of dough for each cookie, spacing them comfortably to allow for spreading. Bake for roughly 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a gentle golden brown—keep a close eye to avoid browned spots. Let them rest on the pan for five minutes; this finishing step helps the cookies set before you transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and be ready for frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Citrus Frosting and Assemble
Whip together the room temperature cream cheese and softened butter, adding salt to balance the sweetness. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. A final splash of vanilla extract contributes a subtle warmth and aromatic lift. Spread roughly one and a half tablespoons of the frosting onto each fully cooled cookie. Dollop a spoonful of chilled blood orange curd on top and lightly swirl the frosting and curd together for a gorgeous marbled effect. This stunning finish is not only beautiful but delivers that perfect tangy-sweet bite.
How to Serve Blood Orange Cookies with Creamy Citrus Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the appearance and flavor of your cookies with simple yet elegant garnishes such as thin candied blood orange slices, finely grated zest, or even a sprinkle of edible flowers. These additions emphasize the bright citrus notes and make the cookies perfect for gifting or special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair these citrusy cookies with a light tea, such as jasmine or green tea, to complement their refreshing zing. For a more indulgent spread, serve alongside a rich cup of coffee or even a glass of sparkling wine—the acidity in the blood orange melds beautifully with bubbly.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cookies on a beautiful platter with small bowls of remaining blood orange curd and extra frosting for guests to add as they please. Alternatively, present them in a charming gift box layered with parchment paper for an irresistibly thoughtful homemade gift that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep the frosting fresh and creamy, placing a piece of parchment between layers prevents sticking and preserves the frosting texture beautifully.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the baked and cooled cookies without frosting in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. Frost and add curd after thawing for best results.
Reheating
Warm cookies gently in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5 minutes to bring out that fresh-baked feeling. Avoid reheating the frosting to prevent melting; instead, allow the cookie to warm while keeping the frosting cool and luscious.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular oranges for blood oranges?
Yes, you can use regular oranges if blood oranges are unavailable. However, blood oranges provide a unique color and slightly berry-like flavor that really elevates the recipe. For best flavor, try to source true blood oranges when possible.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Replace the egg with a flax egg or another plant-based substitute, and use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives in both the cookie dough and frosting. The overall texture and flavor will remain rich and delicious.
Can I make the frosting without cream cheese?
While the cream cheese lends the frosting its signature tang and creaminess, you could substitute it with more butter and a touch of lemon juice for a buttery glaze. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be a bit different but still yummy.
Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld, particularly the blood orange zest with the butter and sugar. It also firms up the dough, which prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps achieve that ideal soft-yet-structured bite.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the frosting?
Powdered sugar gives the frosting its smooth texture. If you only have granulated sugar, try blending it in a food processor until fine, though it won’t be quite as silky. Alternatively, you can use a superfine sugar but expect a slightly grainier texture.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Blood Orange Cookies with Creamy Citrus Frosting Recipe is like inviting sunshine into your kitchen and sharing a slice of happiness with your loved ones. The balance of zesty blood orange and rich, creamy frosting makes these cookies truly unforgettable. I encourage you to bake a batch soon, relish every bite, and maybe even make it a new family favorite that brings a burst of brightness to any day.
Print
Blood Orange Cookies with Creamy Citrus Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Delicious Blood Orange Cookies with Creamy Citrus Frosting offer a perfect balance of zesty blood orange flavor and rich, creamy sweetness. Featuring a tender cookie base infused with fresh blood orange zest and juice, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and vibrant blood orange curd, this recipe is a refreshing twist on classic cookies, ideal for any citrus lover.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 120 g Light Brown Sugar (or dark brown sugar for deeper flavor)
- Zest of 2 Blood Oranges (finely zested)
- 90 g Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- 1 large Egg (or a flax egg for vegan option)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (or vanilla paste for richer flavor)
- 160 g All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 tsp Baking Powder (fresh)
- ½ tsp Salt (can reduce for low-sodium diets)
Blood Orange Curd
- 65 g Granulated Sugar (or 1:1 sugar substitute)
- Zest of 1 Blood Orange
- 40 g Fresh Blood Orange Juice (or other citrus juice)
- 2 large Egg Yolks
- â…› tsp Salt (can omit for salt-restricted diets)
- 28 g Unsalted Butter (cold and cubed)
Creamy Citrus Frosting
- 100 g Cream Cheese (room temperature)
- 42 g Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- â…› tsp Salt
- 160 g Powdered Sugar (can reduce for less sweetness)
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (or almond extract for a twist)
Instructions
- Cookie Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar and zest from two blood oranges, gently rubbing them together to release the fragrant oils. Add 90 grams of softened unsalted butter and beat the mixture with an electric mixer for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Incorporate one egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Carefully fold in 160 grams of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of salt. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Blood Orange Curd: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix 65 grams of granulated sugar with the zest from one blood orange. Stir in 40 grams of fresh blood orange juice, two egg yolks, and an eighth of a teaspoon of salt. Cook this mixture, stirring constantly, for about 3-5 minutes until thickened. Strain the curd through a sieve to ensure smoothness. Mix in 28 grams of cold cubed butter until the curd is smooth and glossy. Let it cool in the fridge until ready to use.
- Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the curd cools. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop about three tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them spaced apart on the prepared sheet. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove from oven, let them rest on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting and Assemble: Beat 100 grams of room temperature cream cheese with 42 grams of softened unsalted butter and an eighth of a teaspoon of salt until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 160 grams of powdered sugar, mixing well to incorporate fully. Finish by adding half a teaspoon of vanilla extract and mixing thoroughly. Frost each cooled cookie with about one and a half tablespoons of the cream cheese frosting. Top each frosted cookie with a dollop of blood orange curd, swirling lightly to create a marbled effect for a beautiful and flavorful finish.
Notes
- For a vegan option, replace the egg in the cookie dough with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water).
- Use gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Reduce salt in the recipe for a low-sodium variation.
- Adjust powdered sugar in the frosting to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
- The blood orange curd can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting for best results.
