Holiday Sugar Cookies with a Hint of Citrus

These classic sugar cookies, with a hint of orange zest, are light, crisp, and perfect for decorating. Gather your family around for a cozy afternoon of baking and decorating to bring a little more magic to your holiday celebrations.

Ingredients (Makes 7 Dozen Cookies)

• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup olive oil
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar, plus more for dusting
• 1 cup granulated sugar, plus more for pressing cookies
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Finely grated zest of 1 orange

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda. Set aside.
   • In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the softened butter, olive oil, confectioners' sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

2. Add the Flavorings:

   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, beating until fully incorporated.
   • Reduce the mixer speed to low, and gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this will keep the cookies tender.

3. Chill the Dough:

   • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and ensures the cookies keep their shape while baking.

4. Bake the Cookies:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator.
   • Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass dipped in granulated sugar.
   • Bake in the preheated oven until the cookies are lightly golden, about 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Dust and Serve:

   • Once the cookies are fully cooled, dust them with a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar for a snowy, festive finish.

Decorating Tips

These sugar cookies are the perfect canvas for holiday decoration. For a classic touch, use powdered sugar as a snowy dusting. Or, set up a decorating station with bowls of royal icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter, allowing everyone to add their own artistic flair.

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also make lovely gifts when wrapped in festive tins or boxes.

Holiday Magic in Every Bite

These cookies are simple yet indulgent, with a subtle hint of citrus that adds a refreshing note to the buttery sweetness. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, left out for Santa, or shared with friends, these cookies embody the warmth and togetherness of the holiday season.