Orange Slice Cookies are a nostalgic treat packed with citrusy bursts and chewy textures. Originating in mid-20th-century American kitchens, they feature chopped orange slice candies and chopped nuts, ingredients commonly found in pantries of the era. These cookies are beloved for their bright flavor and festive look, often appearing during holidays or family gatherings. Their soft texture and rich glaze make them uniquely comforting and flavorful, striking the perfect balance between zesty and sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups orange slice candy (cut in small pieces)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped nuts
- 3 cups brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Icing:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter (or margarine)
- Orange juice (enough to soften to spreading consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and brown sugar.
- Add eggs and stir to combine.
- Fold in chopped orange slice candy and nuts.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Spread mixture evenly in prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes or until golden and set.
Step 4: Make the Icing
- Combine confectioners’ sugar and butter.
- Gradually add orange juice until the icing is soft and spreadable.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Ice the cookies while warm.
- Cut into desired shapes while still slightly warm.
Tips
- Chop the orange slice candy with kitchen scissors dusted in sugar to prevent sticking.
- Replace the nuts with pecans or walnuts for a deeper, more Southern flavor.
- Add ½ teaspoon vanilla or orange extract to enhance citrus notes.
- For chewier bars, slightly underbake by 2–3 minutes.
- Add ½ cup shredded coconut for a vintage twist.
- Use browned butter in the icing for a richer, nutty flavor.
- Dust the top with extra powdered sugar once fully cooled.
- Stir in mini chocolate chips for a fun variation.
- Swap the icing for a simple orange glaze if you prefer a thinner topping.
Nutrition
Calories: 189kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 3gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 27mgSodium: 31mgPotassium: 81mgFiber: 1gSugar: 27gVitamin A: 41IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 1mg
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