The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

Imagine biting into a cloud of citrus-infused delight, a cookie that’s secretly a scone, boasting a crumbly edge and a soft, tender center. These aren’t just any cookies; they are The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies.

These cookies combine the best of both worlds—the comforting texture of a scone with the fun, shareable format of a cookie and the tangy zing of fresh oranges. Perfect for a brunch gathering, a sweet afternoon treat, or anytime you crave a burst of sunshine in every bite!

Here are a few reasons you’ll fall head-over-heels for this recipe:

• Effortless to whip up, these cookies require minimal ingredients and simple steps, making them perfect for beginner bakers and busy bees.
• The bright, citrusy flavor of fresh oranges perfectly complements the buttery, crumbly texture, creating a harmonious blend that dances on your palate.
• Their rustic, bakery-style appearance makes them visually stunning, ready to impress your friends and family at any gathering.
• Adaptable to your liking, you can easily add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of nuts for a personalized twist on this classic treat.

Ingredients for The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour The base of the cookie, providing structure. Use unbleached for the best texture and flavor.
• Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and helps with browning. Feel free to adjust the amount depending on your sweetness preference.
• Baking Powder This is essential for leavening, giving the scones their signature rise and light, airy texture.
• Salt Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness. A pinch goes a long way.
• Unsalted Butter Cold, unsalted butter is key for creating flaky layers. Cut it into small cubes and keep it chilled until ready to use.
• Heavy Cream Adds richness and moisture, binding the ingredients together. You can also use whole milk for a slightly lighter cookie.
• Orange Zest This adds a burst of citrus flavor, making the cookies taste bright and refreshing. Use a microplane for the finest zest.
• Orange Juice Adds moisture and enhances the orange flavor. Freshly squeezed is always best.
• Powdered Sugar For the glaze, providing a smooth, sweet finish. Sift it to prevent lumps.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Small pieces of butter are key for creating flaky layers!

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, orange zest, and orange juice. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Slightly flatten the tops with your fingers.

Step 6: Bake and Glaze

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cookies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and a tablespoon or two of orange juice to make a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

Transfer to plates and enjoy these delightful orange scone cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The secret to these amazing treats? Chill the dough! Start by combining the dry ingredients, then cut in the butter. After adding the wet ingredients, chill the dough before scooping and baking. This prevents spreading and ensures a tender crumb.

Add Your Touch

Want to get creative? Try adding a handful of dried cranberries or blueberries for a fruity twist. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts would also be delicious. For extra zing, add a bit of lemon zest along with the orange.

Storing & Reheating

Store these bakery-sized orange scone cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a warm oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them briefly, but be careful not to dry them out!

Helpful Tips for Baking the Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

• Make sure your butter is very cold before cutting it into the flour mixture; this creates pockets of fat that result in a flaky texture.

• Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the wet ingredients; overmixing develops the gluten, leading to tough cookies.

• Don’t skip the chilling step; it prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and helps to develop their flavor.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I remember the first time I made these; my family devoured them in minutes! My little sister declared them better than any bakery scone she’d ever had, and that’s high praise indeed.

The Story Behind The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

Let’s be real, sometimes you want a cookie. Sometimes you want a scone. And sometimes, my friend, you want both. That’s where The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies come in. It’s the best of both worlds – the satisfying sweetness and portability of a cookie, with the crumbly, slightly virtuous texture of a scone. It all started on a particularly gloomy Tuesday, when I needed a pick-me-up that store-bought pastries just couldn’t deliver. I yearned for that home-baked goodness that warms the soul, but I also wanted something substantial, something that would stand up to my mid-afternoon slump.

I tinkered in the kitchen, inspired by memories of my grandmother’s legendary scones and my own undying love for all things citrus. I wanted a cookie that felt like a warm hug, and a scone that wasn’t dry enough to induce a desert-like experience. The solution? A bakery-sized masterpiece that boasts a soft, crumbly interior, a slightly crisp exterior, and a burst of bright orange flavor. The resulting cookie-scone hybrid was so good, that I felt obligated to share it with the world.

Why These Orange Scone Cookies are Simply the Best

Alright, alright, I know there are a million cookie and scone recipes out there. But trust me, these are different. Forget those tiny, unsatisfying cookies that disappear in two bites or those scones that crumble into dust before they even reach your mouth. These orange scone cookies are BIG. We’re talking bakery-sized, “wow, that’s a cookie” big. This ensures a satisfyingly soft center with a delightful slight crispness around the edges.

The orange flavor is also a game-changer. Zest and juice combine to create a vibrant citrusy punch that cuts through the richness of the dough without being overpowering. It’s sunshine in every bite, even on the gloomiest of days. Plus, the simple recipe is surprisingly easy. No fancy equipment needed, just a bowl, a spoon, and a whole lot of love. Who doesn’t need a little more sunshine and a little less fuss in their baking life?

What You’ll Need to Create the Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Remember, we’re going for maximum flavor and texture without any funny business, so let’s keep it straightforward:

• **All-purpose flour:** The backbone of our cookie-scone hybrid.
• **Granulated sugar:** For sweetness, of course!
• **Baking powder:** The magic ingredient that makes them rise to bakery-sized perfection.
• **Salt:** Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavors.
• **Unsalted butter:** Cold, cold, cold! This is crucial for that flaky, tender crumb.
• **Large eggs:** To bind everything together and add richness.
• **Orange zest:** The secret weapon for that bright, citrusy flavor. Don’t skimp on this!
• **Fresh orange juice:** More sunshine in liquid form.
• **Alcohol-free vanilla extract:** Because a little vanilla never hurt anyone.
• **Optional: Turbinado sugar:** For sprinkling on top for a little extra sparkle and crunch.

See? Nothing too complicated. You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. Now, let’s get baking!

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

Okay, gather ’round, because it’s time to turn these simple ingredients into pure cookie-scone magic. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through every step.

1. **Preheat and Prep: ** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. **Combine Dry Ingredients: ** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.

3. **Cut in the Butter: ** Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add them to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The smaller the butter pieces, the better, resulting in a more tender crumb.

4. **Whisk Wet Ingredients: ** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and Alcohol-free vanilla extract.

5. **Combine Wet and Dry: ** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing will develop the gluten and result in tough cookies.

6. **Chill the Dough: ** This is important! Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

7. **Scoop and Bake: ** Use a large cookie scoop (about 1/4 cup) to scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Sprinkle the tops with turbinado sugar, if desired.

8. **Bake: ** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.

9. **Cool and Enjoy: ** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, dig in and enjoy!

That’s it! You’ve just created The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies. Pat yourself on the back, because you deserve it.

Variations to Make These Cookies Your Own

One of the best things about baking is that you can always customize recipes to suit your own tastes. These orange scone cookies are no exception. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Lemon Poppy Seed Version

Swap the orange zest and juice for lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Add two tablespoons of poppy seeds to the dry ingredients. The result? A bright and zesty cookie with a delightful crunch.

Cranberry Walnut Addition

Fold in half a cup of dried cranberries and half a cup of chopped walnuts into the dough before chilling. The cranberries add a tartness that complements the sweetness of the cookie, while the walnuts add a nutty crunch.

Chocolate Chip Extravaganza

Add half a cup of your favorite chocolate chips to the dough. Because, let’s be honest, chocolate makes everything better.

Experiment and see what combinations you like best! Baking is all about having fun and creating something delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common questions about these orange scone cookies:

• **Can I use margarine instead of butter?** While you *can*, I don’t recommend it. Butter provides a richer flavor and a flakier texture.
• **Can I freeze the dough?** Absolutely! Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• **Can I make these cookies gluten-free?** You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may be slightly different.
• **My cookies spread too much. What did I do wrong?** This could be due to several factors, such as using warm butter, not chilling the dough long enough, or overmixing the dough.
• **Can I add a glaze?** Yes! A simple powdered sugar glaze with a touch of orange juice would be delicious.

Remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. Keep experimenting and tweaking the recipe until you find what works best for you.

Final Thoughts on the Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

So there you have it! The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or a show-stopping dessert to impress your friends, these cookies are the answer.

Go forth and bake, my friends! And don’t forget to share your creations with me. I can’t wait to see what delicious variations you come up with.

Conclusion for The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies

These The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. Combining the comforting familiarity of a scone with the satisfying size of a cookie, they are perfect with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat any time of day. With their delightful orange zest and customizable options, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – you might just surprise yourself!

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FAQs

Can I make The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough for these delightful orange scone cookies up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out, slice, and bake as directed. This is perfect for when you want fresh, warm cookies without all the immediate fuss. Freshly baked is always best, but a little prep goes a long way! Imagine waking up to the smell of these cookies, ready to be devoured!

How do I store The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies?

Storing these treats is a breeze. Once they’re completely cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days—though I highly doubt they’ll last that long! If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, or warm them slightly in the oven for that fresh-baked feeling.

What’s the best way to get that signature scone texture for my Orange Scone Cookies?

The secret to achieving that perfect, slightly crumbly scone texture in these orange scone cookies lies in handling the dough gently. Avoid overmixing, as this develops the gluten and leads to a tougher cookie. You want to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Also, using cold butter is crucial; the small pieces of butter create steam as they bake, resulting in flaky layers. Finally, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—give each cookie some room to spread.

Can I add other flavors to The Ultimate Bakery-Sized Orange Scone Cookies?

Of course! These cookies are a blank canvas for your creativity. Feel free to add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a bit of crunch. A sprinkle of dried cranberries or blueberries would also complement the orange flavor beautifully. For a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. The possibilities are endless, so experiment and find your favorite combination! Just don’t add anchovies, please.