Gourmet Orange Zest Macadamia Nut with Zesty Orange Cookie Recipe

If you’re a fan of gourmet cookies that combine rich, buttery flavors with a burst of citrusy freshness, you’re in for a treat! These Gourmet Orange Zest Macadamia Nut Cookies are the perfect blend of zesty orange flavor, crunchy macadamia nuts, and a soft, chewy texture that will leave you reaching for more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday treat, or just because, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, I’ve included baking tips, prep and cook times, and even nutritional facts to make your baking experience seamless. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🍊 Bright Citrus Flavor: The combination of fresh orange zest and orange extract gives these cookies a vibrant, zesty kick.
🌰 Crunchy Macadamia Nuts: Buttery macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch and richness to every bite.
🍪 Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are perfectly baked to have a golden edge with a soft, chewy center.
✨ Gourmet Vibes: Impress your friends and family with these bakery-worthy cookies that look and taste luxurious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon orange zest (about 1 large orange)

• 1 teaspoon orange extract (optional, for extra citrus flavor)

• 1 cup macadamia nuts, roughly chopped

• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional, for added sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch

Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Yield: 24 cookies

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

4. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange extract (if using). Mix until well combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Fold in Macadamia Nuts and White Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chopped macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.

8. Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for the ultimate treat!

Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Use Fresh Orange Zest: Freshly grated orange zest provides the best flavor. Avoid using bottled zest for this recipe.

• Don’t Overbake: To achieve that perfect soft and chewy texture, remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers are still slightly underbaked.

• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before scooping. This helps prevent spreading.

• Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate or add dried cranberries for a tangy twist.

Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 180

• Total Fat: 10g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Cholesterol: 25mg

• Sodium: 100mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 20g

• Dietary Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 12g

• Protein: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking.

How Do I Store These Cookies?

Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Can I Use Other Nuts?

Yes! If you don’t have macadamia nuts, you can substitute them with pecans, walnuts, or almonds.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

These Gourmet Orange Zest Macadamia Nut Cookies are versatile and perfect for:

• Holiday Baking: Add a festive touch by drizzling melted white chocolate on top.

• Gifts: Package them in a cute box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

• Afternoon Tea: Pair them with your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful snack.

• Dessert Platters: Add them to a dessert platter for parties or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the combination of zesty orange and buttery macadamia nuts in these gourmet cookies. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and let’s bake up a batch of these irresistible Gourmet Orange Zest Macadamia Nut Cookies! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us at https://gourmetcookiebliss.com. Happy baking! 🍊🍪

Recipe Card:

🍪 Gourmet Orange Zest Macadamia Nut Cookies
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10-12 mins | Total Time: 25-30 mins
Yield: 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp orange zest

• 1 tsp orange extract (optional)

• 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped

• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Whisk dry ingredients in a bowl.

3. Cream butter and sugars, then add wet ingredients.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients.

5. Fold in macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.

6. Scoop dough onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

7. Cool and enjoy!

CLICK THIS LINK TO GET ALL YOUR BAKING ESSENTIALS