Zesty Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Citrusy Delight! 🍊🍪

Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies 🍊🍪

Cook Time: 8 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Servings: 4-6 dozen

Description:

Indulge in the delightful fusion of citrusy zest and rich chocolate with these tantalizing Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total time of 23 minutes, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy nights in. The burst of orange flavor combined with the sweetness of chocolate creates an irresistible treat that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• Zest of 1 orange

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside for later.

2. Cream the Sugars and Fats:

   • In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable shortening, butter, vanilla extract, and freshly squeezed orange juice until smooth and creamy.

3. Incorporate Eggs:

   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.

4. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a smooth dough forms.

5. Add Flavorful Additions:

   • Stir in the chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, and grated orange peel, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Chill the Dough:

   • Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and the dough to firm up for easier handling.

7. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when the dough is chilled.

8. Form the Cookies:

   • Using a teaspoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto a lightly buttered or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

9. Bake to Perfection:

   • Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set.

10. Cool and Enjoy:

    • Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up slightly before serving.

These Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a glass of cold milk or your favorite hot beverage. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. So, whip up a batch today and indulge in the perfect balance of citrusy zest and decadent chocolate goodness! 🍊🍪