Dessert

Orange Poppy Seed Cookies Recipe

ByLily Monroe January 19, 2026January 19, 2026

Introduction

These Orange Poppy Seed Cookies are a bright and flavorful treat, combining the zesty freshness of orange with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. Perfectly tender and lightly glazed, they make a delightful snack or a sweet finish to any meal.

A close-up image shows a stack of round cookies with a soft, light yellow color speckled with small black poppy seeds scattered evenly throughout. The top of each cookie is lightly coated with a thin, glossy white glaze, and bright orange zest is sprinkled on top, adding a fresh pop of color and texture. The cookies are arranged on a white plate with a delicate black pattern around the edge, sitting on a white marbled surface. The image focuses on the top and sides of the cookies, highlighting their moist texture and the contrast of the black seeds and orange zest on the pale cookie base. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp orange zest
2 tbsp poppy seeds
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg + 2 egg yolks, room temperature
1 1/2 tsp orange extract
1 drop of orange food color (optional)
For the orange glaze:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp orange juice
1 tbsp orange zest to sprinkle on top (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, orange zest, and poppy seeds.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Beat in the egg and egg yolks until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add the orange extract and food color (if using), mixing well.
Step 6: Gradually stir in the flour mixture just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the sheet.
Step 8: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges and bottom are very lightly browned.
Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice to make the glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with orange zest if desired.
Step 11: Let the glaze set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest along with the orange zest.
Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the glaze to enhance natural brightness.
Substitute almond extract for orange extract for a different but delicious twist.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.

Storage

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If glazed, let the icing harden completely before storing to prevent stickiness. They also freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. To refresh, warm briefly in the oven or microwave.

How to Serve

The image shows several round cookies on a baking mat with a light brown color and visible black poppy seeds spread evenly across each cookie. The cookies have a slightly bumpy texture on the surface, with edges that are a bit darker golden brown, showing they are baked. The background features a white marbled texture, and the cookies lie flat on the mat with a soft, slightly risen shape. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh orange zest instead of dried?

Yes, fresh orange zest is recommended for the best flavor and aroma. Just be sure to use the outer colored part of the peel and avoid the white pith, which can be bitter.

What can I do if I don’t have orange extract?

If you don’t have orange extract, you can use finely grated orange zest alone for flavor, or substitute with lemon extract or vanilla extract for a different but pleasant taste.