Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to dessert heaven! These chocolate orange sandwich cookies are not just another ordinary treat - they're a culinary masterpiece that combines rich chocolate, zesty orange, and a creamy frosting that will make your mouth water. Whether you're a baking enthusiast or a dessert lover looking for the perfect sweet indulgence, these cookies promise to be your new obsession. Prepare to impress your friends, family, and even yourself with this irresistible recipe that's easier to make than you might think!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 42 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 18 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup orange-flavored frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the large egg and orange zest to the butter mixture, beating until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread orange-flavored frosting on the flat side of half the cookies.
- Sandwich the frosted cookies with the remaining plain cookies, creating a sandwich-style cookie.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra decoration.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
- Chill the dough for exactly 15 minutes; this helps prevent spreading and makes the cookies more uniform.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon for consistent cookie sizes to ensure even baking.
- Don't overbake! Remove cookies when edges are set but centers still look slightly soft.
- Let cookies cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting and ensure a clean sandwich.
- For an extra flavor boost, use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh orange zest.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
- For a professional touch, use a piping bag to apply the orange frosting evenly between cookies.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
