Creamsicle Orange Cookies

Introduction

When you think of summer nostalgia, chances are a creamy orange creamsicle comes to mind. These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are my way of bottling up that refreshing childhood memory and turning it into a homemade treat that’s perfect all year long. Soft, chewy, and full of zesty flavor, they make a fun and bright addition to cookie platters, bake sales, or even as an afternoon pick-me-up with tea or coffee. Plus, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients, making it quick and foolproof even for beginner bakers.

My recipe story

Growing up, my favorite summer treat was a classic orange creamsicle bar—the bright citrus shell paired with a creamy vanilla center was the ultimate indulgence. As an adult, I wanted to capture that same flavor but in a homemade dessert that could be shared with friends and family. After experimenting with cake mix cookies and adding citrusy twists, these Creamsicle Orange Cookies were born. The first batch disappeared faster than I expected, and now, it’s a recipe I always bake when I want to bring sunshine to any table.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity. By starting with a box of white cake mix, you eliminate the need to measure flour, sugar, or leavening agents. The cake mix provides a perfect base that bakes into a soft, fluffy cookie every time.

To achieve that signature creamsicle flavor, orange jello is the secret ingredient. It infuses the dough with a vibrant citrusy sweetness and gives the cookies their fun orange color. Fresh orange zest brightens the flavor even more, balancing the sweetness with natural citrus oils.

The combination of eggs and oil binds the dough and keeps the cookies moist, while a hint of vanilla extract rounds out the creamsicle vibe with a touch of creaminess. Optional white chocolate chips or a vanilla glaze can take these cookies to the next level, mimicking the creamy vanilla center of the original frozen treat.

Equipment you’ll need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric hand mixer
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cooling rack
• Zester or microplane for fresh orange zest

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Having your oven properly preheated is key to getting cookies with a consistent texture.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, orange jello powder, and orange zest. Whisk them together until evenly incorporated. This step ensures that the zest and jello are distributed throughout, giving every bite that bright citrus flavor.

Step 3: Add wet ingredients
Add eggs, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Using a whisk or electric mixer, beat until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If you want extra sweetness, fold in white chocolate chips at this stage.

Step 4: Shape the cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out small balls of dough (about 1 ½ tablespoons each). Roll them lightly between your palms to form uniform balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow spreading.

Step 5: Bake to perfection
Bake the cookies for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft. Avoid overbaking, as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. The goal is a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 6: Cool and enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3–4 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set without breaking apart. Once cooled, drizzle with vanilla glaze if desired, or serve as-is for a simple and delicious treat.

Variations & substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your taste. Swap the white cake mix with yellow cake mix for a slightly richer base. If you prefer a more intense citrus profile, add lemon or lime zest alongside the orange zest. For a creamier twist, fold in cream cheese chips or top the cooled cookies with a vanilla cream frosting. Want something lighter? Skip the glaze and enjoy the cookies plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

These cookies keep wonderfully fresh for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls—simply bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Serving ideas & pairings

These Creamsicle Orange Cookies are a joy to serve on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired creatively. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamsicle-inspired dessert bowl, or sandwich two cookies together with a creamy filling for homemade cookie sandwiches. They also pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea, chamomile, or a glass of cold milk. For parties, stack them on a platter alongside lemon bars and chocolate chip cookies for a colorful dessert spread.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies without jello?
Yes, but the jello adds both flavor and color. If skipping it, increase the orange zest and consider adding orange extract for stronger flavor.

Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes, melted butter works, but it will make the cookies slightly denser and less chewy than using oil.

Do I need to chill the dough?
Not always, but chilling for 20–30 minutes can help if your dough feels too sticky or if you want thicker cookies.

Can I glaze the cookies?
Absolutely! A simple glaze of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla adds a lovely creamy contrast to the citrus flavor.

What’s the best way to zest an orange?
Use a microplane or fine grater, avoiding the white pith underneath the skin, which can be bitter.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s as fun as it is flavorful, these Creamsicle Orange Cookies are a must-try. They’re quick, easy, and bring that nostalgic burst of citrusy sweetness that feels like summer in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles and compliments. Give them a try—you’ll find yourself making them again and again!

Creamsicle Orange Cookies

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Soft and chewy cookies bursting with bright orange flavor and a touch of vanilla sweetness. A nostalgic treat inspired by classic creamsicles.

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Ingredients

• 15.25 ounces white cake mix (1 box)
• 3 ounces orange jello (1 box)

• 2 tablespoons fresh orange zest

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Optional: 1 cup white chocolate chips
• Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together cake mix, orange jello powder, and orange zest until combined.
3. Add eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms. Stir in white chocolate chips if using.

4. Scoop dough into balls, about 1 ½ tablespoons each, and place on prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until edges are set but centers look slightly soft.
6. Cool on the sheet for 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with glaze if desired.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months. Pairs perfectly with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American