Cardamom Orange Glaze Cookies (Print-Friendly Version)

Buttery cookies feature warm cardamom, zesty orange glaze, and eye-catching decoration for elegant occasions.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cookies

01 - 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
03 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
04 - 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
05 - 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
06 - Pinch of salt

→ For the Orange Glaze

07 - 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
08 - 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
09 - 1/2 tsp orange zest

→ For Decoration

10 - White royal icing or icing pearls

# Steps:

01 - In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated. Gradually add flour, cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
02 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to create shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack before decorating.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
04 - Spoon or spread the glaze onto the cooled cookies, letting it settle naturally. While the glaze is still wet, use royal icing or icing pearls to create dotted patterns or other designs. Allow the glaze and decorations to dry completely before serving or storing.

# Notes:

01 - Refrigerating the dough ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.
02 - For a stronger cardamom flavor, slightly increase the amount to taste.
03 - To avoid overspreading, ensure butter is just softened, not melted.