2. Toasted Sesame & Orange Cookies
A bold, savory-sweet cookie that surprises with its nutty sesame crunch, bright orange zest, and a touch of honey glaze — festive and totally unique.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Savory-sweet flavor with real depth
- Crisp edges with a chewy center
- Gorgeous golden finish with minimal decorating
- Totally off the beaten cookie path
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Baking sheets with parchment
- Microplane or zester
Ingredient Notes
Use toasted sesame seeds for richer flavor. A little orange blossom honey enhances the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tea or mulled wine. Pair with lighter cookies for a well-balanced tray.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Store at room temp up to 4 days. Glaze after baking and cooling.
Recipe
Yield: ~24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds (plus more for topping)
Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, orange zest, and vanilla.
- Mix in dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in sesame seeds.
- Scoop dough into balls and flatten slightly. Top with extra sesame seeds.
- Bake 10–12 minutes, until golden at the edges.
- Warm honey and orange juice. Brush glaze on warm cookies.