Elevate Your Baking Game with Fresh Blueberry Cookies and Zesty Orange Glaze
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful combination of fresh blueberries and zesty orange in these irresistible Fresh Blueberry Cookies with an Orange Glaze. Bursting with juicy berries and citrusy goodness, these cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to afternoon tea parties. With a soft and cake-like texture, they’re sure to become a favorite among family and friends. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and embark on a baking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of butter (1 stick), softened
- 1 box cream cheese (8 ounces), softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon orange extract
- 1 box Betty Crocker Butter Cake Mix
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and orange extract, and beat until well combined.
- Incorporate Cake Mix: Gradually add the Betty Crocker Butter Cake Mix to the creamed mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in Blueberries: Gently fold in the fresh blueberries until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this may break the berries.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon to create a uniform shape.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the tops are set.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Orange Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth and well combined.
- Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top of each cookie using a spoon or pastry brush.
- Let Set: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving, allowing it to firm up slightly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delightful Fresh Blueberry Cookies with an Orange Glaze alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat that’s bursting with flavor.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Substitute Orange Extract: If you don’t have orange extract on hand, you can use freshly squeezed orange juice or orange zest to infuse the cookies with citrus flavor.
- Try Different Berries: Feel free to experiment with different types of berries, such as raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries, for a unique twist on this recipe.
- Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: For added texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough before baking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: To make a keto-friendly version of these cookies, substitute the butter cake mix with a keto-friendly baking mix or almond flour. Use a sugar substitute such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of the powdered sugar in the glaze.
- Low-Carb Twist: To reduce the carb content of these cookies, use almond flour or coconut flour instead of the cake mix. You can also omit the glaze or use a sugar-free glaze made with powdered erythritol and a small amount of heavy cream or almond milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen blueberries in this recipe. However, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before folding them into the cookie dough to prevent excess moisture.
Q: How should I store these cookies? A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer, you can store them in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Q: Can I freeze the cookies? A: Yes, these cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the orange glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and give it a good stir before drizzling it over the cookies.
Elevate your baking repertoire with these delectable Fresh Blueberry Cookies with an Orange Glaze. With their soft and cake-like texture, bursting with juicy blueberries and zesty orange flavor, these cookies are sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are a delightful choice. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a baking journey that’s bound to delight your taste buds. Happy baking!