Name: Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 3/4 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 medium orange, zested (about 4 teaspoons); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon orange extract; 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 cups white baking chips

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 68 reviews

If you’re craving a cookie that tastes like a bright, nostalgic summertime treat, you must try this Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe. These cookies capture all the creamy, citrusy magic of that classic orange creamsicle popsicle we loved as kids, but in a soft, chewy cookie form. With a perfect balance of orange zest, fragrant extracts, and pockets of sweet white baking chips, every bite bursts with sunshine and sweetness that’s as comforting as it is delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with light tan cookie dough mixed with many small white chocolate chips on top, showing a creamy, soft texture with a wooden spatula partially dipped inside the dough. Next to the bowl, there is a smaller white bowl filled with more white chocolate chips. A silver ice cream scoop rests on a folded red cloth beside the bowls. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients combine simplicity and flavor to create cookies that are moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured. Each plays a crucial role, from the tender richness that butter provides to the zesty brightness from fresh orange zest, all coming together into a harmonious treat.

1 cup butter, softened: Gives the cookies a rich, creamy base and tender crumb.
3/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness and helps keep the cookies soft.
1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens and balances textures for a light bite.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Binds everything together and makes the dough easy to work with.
1 medium orange, zested (about 4 teaspoons): Fresh zest infuses the cookies with vibrant, natural citrus flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to balance the bright orange notes.
1 teaspoon orange extract: Amplifies the orange taste for that iconic creamsicle flavor.
2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy structure of the cookie, holding everything together.
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix: Keeps the cookies moist and tender with a hint of creamy vanilla.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the cookies rise just enough to stay soft and slightly puffy.
2 cups white baking chips: Melts into little bursts of sweet creaminess throughout each cookie.

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by softening your butter and blending it with both brown sugar and regular sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This process, taking about five to seven minutes, is key to incorporating air for a tender cookie texture. The sugars dissolve into the butter, creating the perfect base for the vibrant flavors to build on.

Step 2: Add Eggs, Orange Zest, and Extracts

Once the butter and sugars are perfectly creamed, beat in the eggs one at a time along with the fresh orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange extract. This step infuses the dough with the signature creamsicle aroma and adds moisture that will keep your cookies soft and chewy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, instant vanilla pudding mix, and baking soda. This dry mix brings structure, tenderness, and a slight lift to the cookies. The pudding mix is the secret ingredient that ensures a soft, almost cake-like crumb without any heaviness.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the flour mixture to your creamed wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can toughen cookies, so be gentle here. Finally, fold in the white baking chips, which will melt into pockets of creamy sweetness during baking—just like a real creamsicle!

Step 5: Scoop and Bake the Cookies

Use a 1/4 cup scoop to portion the dough into generous mounds, placing them about 2 inches apart on greased or parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 15 to 17 minutes, until the edges are a delicate golden brown. Let them cool on wire racks to set perfectly before indulging.

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe

Several round, golden-brown cookies with small white chocolate chips are placed closely together on a silver cooling rack. The cookies have a slightly cracked surface and soft texture with lightly browned edges. A folded, coral-red cloth is placed to the left side of the rack. The scene is set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate these cookies for your next gathering, consider sprinkling a bit of fine powdered sugar combined with a zest of orange on top right after baking. Another fun idea is to drizzle them lightly with melted white chocolate or a simple orange glaze for extra zing and sparkle.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with an afternoon cup of tea or a cold glass of milk to emphasize their creamy orange flavors. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad with segments of juicy oranges and tart berries, echoing that increased citrus sensation.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe on a bright, citrus-themed platter to bring a pop of color and personality. Wrap them in clear cellophane tied with orange ribbon for charming little gifts. And don’t hesitate to place a single cookie atop a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy, fresh twist on dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them soft and flavorful, preserving that delicious creamsicle experience bite after bite.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Bake them directly from frozen by adding a couple of minutes to the bake time for fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

When you want warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or heat briefly in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This restores that fresh-baked softness and awakens the creamy orange flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of orange extract?

Fresh orange juice adds great flavor but also extra moisture, which can alter the cookie texture. For best results, stick with orange extract for that concentrated, consistent creamsicle flavor.

What if I don’t have instant vanilla pudding mix?

The pudding mix is key for keeping cookies moist and tender. If unavailable, try substituting with an equal amount of cornstarch and a little extra sugar, but the texture won’t be quite the same.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that is designed for one-to-one substitution. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain cookie structure.

Are white baking chips necessary?

White baking chips contribute chunks of creamy sweetness that mimic the luscious cream in a creamsicle. If you can’t find them, white chocolate chips work well as a good alternative.

How long will the cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe cookies should remain fresh for up to a week at room temperature, maintaining their softness and flavor beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the combination of bright, zesty orange and sweet creaminess in these Orange Creamsicle Cookies Recipe treats. Whether you’re baking for yourself, friends, or family, they deliver a burst of sunshine and warmth that’s impossible to resist. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie to brighten up any day!