Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix)

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s both quick and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! These Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix) are my go-to when I need something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. The bright citrus flavor is simply irresistible, and they turn out soft and chewy every time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion—be it a school bake sale or an after-dinner treat on a cozy night in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: You can have these cookies ready in just 40 minutes!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love rolling the dough in sugar and picking out their favorite cookie shapes.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of orange zest and juice makes each bite burst with citrus goodness.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can chill the dough ahead of time or freeze the baked cookies for later enjoyment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for these Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix) is part of the fun! They’re all simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Dough

• 1/3 cup Oil
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 tbsp Orange zest
• 2 tbsp Orange juice
• 2 tsp Orange extract
• Orange gel coloring
• 1 box Yellow cake mix (Use orange cake mix, if you can find it.)

For Rolling

• 1 cup Granulated sugar (For rolling cookie dough balls)

Optional Topping

• Orange buttercream frosting (Optional, For icing top of cookies)

Variations

One of the best things about these Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix) is how flexible the recipe can be. If you feel like getting creative, here are some fun variations to try:

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a rich twist on the classic flavor.
• Coconut flakes: Fold in unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical vibe that pairs beautifully with orange.
• Lemon twist: Substitute half of the orange juice with lemon juice for a zesty lemon-orange combo.
• Sprinkle some nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and depth to these cookies.

How to Make Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix)

Step 1: Prepare Your Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, orange extract, and orange gel coloring. Mixing until fluffy is key here—it helps incorporate air into your dough, making your cookies light and chewy!

Step 2: Add Cake Mix

Next, add your cake mix to the bowl and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely fluffy cookies without too much gluten development!

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Chill your dough for 20-30 minutes; this step makes it easier to handle while scooping and rolling into cookie balls. Plus, chilling enhances flavors as they meld together.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into little balls. This is where the fun begins! Get your hands dusted with sugar before rolling them—this gives your cookies that delightful sweet coating.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Place your rolled balls on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper. Bake them at 350 degrees F for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are firm but the center remains slightly soft—that’s when they’re perfect!

Step 6: Frosting Fun (Optional)

Once cooled to room temperature, feel free to frost them with orange buttercream or drizzle some glaze on top if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every bite of these cheerful treats!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix)

Baking should be fun and stress-free! Here are some tips to ensure your Easy Orange Cookies come out perfect every time.

• Chill the dough: Chilling your cookie dough for 20-30 minutes makes it easier to handle, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. This results in soft, chewy cookies!
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh orange zest and juice can significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies. The bright citrus notes will make them taste vibrant and delicious!
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; removing them when the edges are firm but the centers are still slightly soft ensures a tender texture. They’ll continue to cook a bit after coming out of the oven!
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note that complements the orange flavor beautifully. It’s all about personalizing your cookie experience!
• Store properly: To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just remember to layer them with parchment paper.

How to Serve Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix)

These delightful orange cookies not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dessert table! Here are some ideas for serving them up.

Garnishes

• Orange zest: A sprinkle of fresh orange zest on top adds a burst of color and intensifies the citrus flavor.
• Powdered sugar: Dusting a bit of powdered sugar over the cooled cookies gives them an elegant finish that’s perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits pairs wonderfully with orange cookies, balancing sweetness with natural acidity.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve these cookies warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination that everyone loves.
• Herbal tea: A cup of calming herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, complements the bright flavors of the cookies and provides a soothing finish to any meal.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a light side dish that enhances the cookie experience while keeping things fruity and fun!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a delightful spread that brings joy to any gathering or just a cozy night in. Enjoy baking and sharing these Easy Orange Cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix) recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats whenever the craving strikes. You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze cookies, let them cool completely first.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For warm cookies, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix).

Can I use any cake mix for these Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix)?

Yes! While yellow cake mix is recommended, you can use orange cake mix if available for an enhanced orange flavor.

How do I make my Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix) more flavorful?

You can increase the amount of orange zest or juice to intensify the flavor. Adding a bit of lemon zest can also brighten the taste!

Can I use regular butter instead of oil?

While oil gives these cookies their tender texture, you can substitute with melted unsalted butter if preferred. Just note it might slightly change the texture.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix)?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including prep and baking time. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s great for busy days!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Easy Orange Cookies (With Cake Mix). They are not only simple and quick but also bursting with fresh citrus flavor that is sure to brighten your day. Enjoy making them with family or friends, and don’t hesitate to share your creations! Happy baking!