Description
Flora Cookies are delicate, buttery treats with a hint of vanilla and optional orange zest for a subtle citrus aroma. Perfect for tea time or gifting, these classic cookies offer a soft texture with a lightly crisp edge. They are simple to prepare and can be dusted with powdered sugar for extra sweetness and an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Finishing
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest if using, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a smooth dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop or roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn a light golden brown. The centers should remain soft to ensure a tender cookie.
- Cool and Dust. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar if desired for a delicate finish.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming with sugar.
- Orange zest is optional but adds a pleasant citrus aroma that pairs well with vanilla.
- Do not overbake to maintain the soft texture of the cookies.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
