The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies

The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies are a delightful treat that can elevate any gathering. These cookies boast a perfect blend of creamy texture and zesty orange flavor, making them ideal for brunches, afternoon teas, or simply as a sweet indulgence. With their bakery-style size and delicious glaze, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies
• Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
• Step 2: Cream the Butter Mixture
• Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Shape the Dough
• Step 6: Preheat the Oven
• Step 7: Bake the Cookies
• Step 8: Cool Down
• Step 9: Prepare Glaze
• Step 10: Glaze the Cookies
• Step 11: Final Refrigeration
• Step 12: Scoop More Cookies
• Step 13: Final Bake
• How to Serve The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies
• With Coffee
• With Tea
• As Dessert
• At Brunch
• How to Perfect The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies
• Best Side Dishes for The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies
• Reheating The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long do The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies last?
• Can I freeze The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies?
• What should I serve with The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies?
• How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
• Can I adjust the sweetness of The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of orange zest and extracts creates a bright, refreshing taste that stands out.
• Bakery-Style Size: Each cookie is generously sized, giving you that indulgent feel of a bakery treat right at home.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers.
• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it simple for bakers of all skill levels to achieve great results.
• Make Ahead Option: The dough can be refrigerated, allowing you to prepare in advance for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to achieve the desired texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Wire cooling rack: Allows air circulation around cookies for even cooling and prevents sogginess.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– ½ cup vegetable shortening
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– zest from one large orange
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or vanilla paste (I used vanilla paste)
– 2 teaspoons orange extract
– 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 4 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 teaspoon orange extract
– orange zest from one large orange

How to Make The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

1. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, add vegetable shortening, unsalted butter, cream cheese, orange zest, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange extract.
2. Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
2. Blend until well combined.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

1. Divide the dough into fourteen equal-sized balls (each about 3.6 ounces).
2. Place seven balls per cookie sheet on the prepared sheets.
3. Refrigerate for 2½ hours.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Note that if you’re using an electric or gas oven, adjust the baking time accordingly.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake cookies for about fourteen minutes.
2. After baking, use the back of a wide wooden spoon to gently press each hot cookie down flat.
3. Continue baking for an additional four minutes.

Step 8: Cool Down

1. Slide the cookies on their parchment paper onto the counter to cool completely.
2. Transfer cooled cookies to a wire cooling rack with wax or parchment paper underneath to catch glaze drips.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, mix together powdered sugar, orange juice, orange extract, and additional orange zest.
2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 10: Glaze the Cookies

1. Dip cooled cookies in the prepared orange glaze to coat them evenly.

Step 11: Final Refrigeration

1. Leave any remaining dough in the mixing bowl and refrigerate for another two hours.

Step 12: Scoop More Cookies

1. Use a cookie or ice cream scoop (about two ounces) to scoop more cookie dough onto lined sheets.
2. Form into balls; you should yield close to double the original batch size.

Step 13: Final Bake

1. Bake in a preheated oven at 350° for eleven minutes.
2. Flatten again with the back of a wooden spoon before baking an additional two minutes.

Enjoy your baking journey with these Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies!

How to Serve The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies

Serving The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a casual coffee break or a festive gathering, these cookies are a delightful treat that pairs well with various beverages and accompaniments.

With Coffee

• Brewed Coffee: A classic choice, the rich flavors of coffee complement the citrus notes of the orange scone cookies perfectly.
• Espresso: For a stronger flavor pairing, serve with a shot of espresso to enhance the sweetness of the cookies.

With Tea

• Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot flavor in Earl Grey enhances the orange zest in the cookies for a refreshing combination.
• Green Tea: A lighter option, green tea’s subtle taste balances well with the sweetness of the scone cookies.

As Dessert

• Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or orange sorbet on top for an indulgent dessert.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookies.

At Brunch

• Fruit Salad: Pairing with a colorful fruit salad adds freshness and complements the orange flavor.
• Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese to offer a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

How to Perfect The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with softened butter and cream cheese helps achieve a light, fluffy dough.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill Dough Properly: Refrigerating the dough helps maintain shape while baking and enhances flavors.
• Adjust Baking Time for Ovens: Since oven temperatures can vary, keep an eye on your cookies in case they need slight adjustments in baking time.
• Press Gently After Baking: Using the back of a spoon to flatten after baking ensures uniform thickness and texture.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.

Best Side Dishes for The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies

Pairing side dishes with The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious and delicious complement.
3. Savory Muffins: Cheddar or herb muffins add a savory touch that contrasts nicely with sweet scones.
4. Cheese Board: Include various cheeses and crackers for an elegant touch that pairs well with coffee or tea.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can provide a crunchy texture alongside soft scone cookies.
6. Vegetable Platter: A selection of fresh veggies with dip offers a refreshing crunch that balances sweetness effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can hinder proper mixing. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Neglecting measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour and sugar.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to cookies spreading too much. Chill the dough as directed to maintain shape and texture.
• Overbaking: It’s easy to let cookies bake too long. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Skipping the glaze: The orange glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step if you want the full experience of these delicious scone cookies.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each ball in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies last?

These cookies will last up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze both baked cookies and unbaked dough balls. Just remember to use proper wrapping.

What should I serve with The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or brunch.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it’s designed for baking for best results.

Can I adjust the sweetness of The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies?

Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar slightly or add more orange zest for added flavor without additional sweetness.

Final Thoughts

The Ultimate Bakery-Size Orange Scone Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile, perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or extra spices if desired. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the wonderful flavors that come together beautifully!