You’ll never guess my secret weapon to get the perfect flavor in my Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe. It’s not just orange zest or extract—it’s orange emulsion, a powerhouse ingredient that delivers that nostalgic, ice-cream-truck creamsicle taste in every chewy bite. These cookies are soft, thick, and bursting with bright citrus and creamy white chocolate, making them the ultimate summer-inspired treat . However, I bake them year-round because they’re just that good!

If you love the classic orange creamsicle popsicle, you’re in for a real treat. Specifically, this orange creamsicle cookies recipe combines a tender, chewy cookie base with zesty orange flavor and sweet white chocolate chips for that perfect ice-cream-like balance. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, stay soft for days, and have a gorgeous orange hue that screams fun. So, let’s dive into why this recipe works and how you can bake a batch of your own!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe

Nostalgic Flavor: The orange emulsion and zest capture that iconic creamsicle taste, like a popsicle in cookie form.
Chewy Perfection: A higher flour ratio and extra brown sugar keep these cookies thick and soft, even on Day 2.
White Chocolate Bliss: Creamy white chocolate chips mimic the vanilla ice cream layer of a creamsicle.
Easy to Make: No fancy equipment or chilling required—just mix, scoop, and bake!
Pretty & Vibrant: An optional touch of orange food coloring makes these cookies as stunning as they are delicious.

The Secret to Perfect Orange Flavor: Orange Emulsion

So, what’s the magic behind that bold orange creamsicle flavor? It’s orange emulsion (my not-so-secret weapon)! Unlike orange extract, which can fade during baking, emulsion is a water-based flavoring that holds up to heat, delivering a natural, intense citrus punch. I use LorAnn Oils Orange Bakery Emulsion, but any high-quality brand works. However, if you only have extract, increase the amount slightly (see recipe notes), but trust me—emulsion is a game-changer for these cookies.

Special Ingredient Notes

Orange Emulsion: Find it online, at baking supply stores, or Hobby Lobby. If using orange extract, increase to ¾ teaspoon.
Butter: Softened, not melted, to prevent flat cookies.
Unsalted or Salted Butter: Salted is the way to go for this recipe. If you use unsalted butter, just up your salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
White Chocolate Chips: Use high-quality chips like Ghirardelli for the best flavor.

Success Tips for the Best Orange Creamsicle Cookies

Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cookies (or weigh your ingredients my FAVORITE)!
Don’t Overbake: Pull the cookies out when the centers look soft. Overbaking leads to crispier cookies, which we don’t want here.
Keep Them Chewy: Store with a slice of bread or a piece of apple (replace daily) in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
Chill for Thicker Cookies: If your kitchen is warm or you want extra height, chill the dough balls for 20-30 minutes before baking.
Zest Like a Pro: Use a microplane for fine zest, and avoid the white pith—it’s bitter!

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread for up to 5 days. They’ll stay chewy and delicious.
Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Freezing Dough: Scoop dough balls, roll in orange sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.

Recipe Variations

Orange Glaze: Drizzle cooled cookies with a glaze made from ½ cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon orange juice, and a drop of orange emulsion.
Milk Chocolate Chips: Swap white chocolate for milk chocolate for a different flavor twist.
Extra Citrus: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrus medley.

Why This Recipe Works

This orange creamsicle cookies recipe is a winner because it balances flavor, texture, and ease. The orange emulsion delivers a bold, nostalgic taste that doesn’t fade during baking. Extra brown sugar and a touch of cornstarch ensure a chewy, soft texture that lasts. The higher flour ratio keeps the cookies thick and prevents spreading, while the white chocolate chips add creamy sweetness. Plus, that orange sugar coating? It’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite.

Ready to Bake?

I can’t wait for you to try this chewy orange creamsicle cookies recipe! It’s like biting into a summer memory, with all the bright orange flavor and creamy goodness of your favorite popsicle. Whip up a batch, share them with friends, or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here). Let me know how they turn out in the comments below, or tag me on Instagram with your cookie pics!

More Orange Treats to Brighten Your Day

Obsessed with the sunny, citrusy vibe of these Chewy Orange Creamsicle Cookies? I’m sure you’ll love these other orange-infused treats! Each one brings that fresh, zesty flavor to the table in a totally unique way. Here are three more orange desserts to add to your baking list:

Orange Blossom Cupcakes with Orange Buttercream: These delicate cupcakes are infused with orange blossom water for a floral, citrusy twist that’s pure magic. Topped with a silky orange buttercream, they’re perfect for spring gatherings or anytime you want a fancy yet easy dessert!
Iced Orange Rhubarb Muffins: Tangy rhubarb and bright orange zest team up in these moist, tender muffins, finished with a sweet orange glaze. They’re a breakfast win or a cozy afternoon snack that screams summer vibes.
Orange Gooey Butter Cookies: Imagine soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a burst of orange flavor in every bite. This was my original orange creamsicle cookie (with a cake mix). These gooey gems are rolled in powdered sugar and taste like a citrusy dream—perfect for cookie swaps or holiday trays!

Each of these recipes captures that irresistible orange sparkle, just like my newest orange cookie. Which one will you bake next? Let me know in the comments!

Prep Time:15

Cook Time:11

Total Time:40

Ingredients

2 ¼ c. all-purpose flour 270g
1 tsp. cornstarch
½ tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. baking powder
¼ tsp. salt
¾ c. salted butter, softened (70g
½ c. granulated sugar 100g
¾ c. light brown sugar, packed 150g
1 large egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. orange emulsion
Zest of 2 medium oranges (2 tbsp)
¾ c. white chocolate chips 130g
3-4 drops gel food coloring (optional)

For Coating

¼ c. granulated sugar
Zest of 1 medium orange (1 tbsp)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheet with parchment or silicone liner
Rub zest of 1 orange into ¼ c. sugar for coating. Set aside.
Whisk flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Beat butter and sugars until fluffy (2-3 minutes).
Add egg, vanilla, orange emulsion, zest, and food coloring (if using). Beat until smooth.
Mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
Fold in white chocolate chips.
Scoop cookies and roll in sugar coating.
Place dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets. Bake 9-11 minutes until edges set, centers soft.
Cool on sheet 5-10 minutes, then transfer to rack.

Notes

Salted Butter: Using salted butter adds a subtle savory balance. If you only have unsalted butter, up your salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
Orange Emulsion: Emulsion delivers a bold, natural orange flavor that holds up during baking. If using orange extract, increase to 1 1/2 tsp, as it’s less potent.
Egg: Use a large egg at room temperature for even mixing. Cold eggs can cause the butter to seize.
Prevent Spreading Issues: If cookies spread too much with the 2 1/4 cups flour, chill dough balls for 20-30 minutes before baking or slightly flatten them before placing in the oven.
Underbake for Chewiness: Remove cookies when the centers look slightly underdone (9-11 minutes). They’ll firm up on the baking sheet, staying soft and chewy.
Orange Zest: Use a microplane for fine zest, avoiding the bitter white pith. Fresh oranges yield the best flavor.
White Chocolate Chips: High-quality chips (like Ghirardelli) melt better and taste creamier. If you prefer, swap for milk chocolate or orange-flavored chips.
Storage Tip: Store with a slice of bread or apple piece (replace daily) to maintain moisture and chewiness for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake frozen dough balls with an extra 1-2 minutes, no thawing needed.
Food Coloring: Optional gel coloring adds a vibrant orange hue. Liquid coloring works but may slightly thin the dough, so use sparingly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie

Servings: cookies

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Chewy Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe with White Chocolate

Why You’ll Love This Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe