Iced Orange Cookies

Can I use a different type of citrus in these cookies?

Of course! Go ahead and substitute your preferred citrus (lemon, lime, etc.) in place of orange and proceed as the recipe instructs. However, keep in mind that using baking substitutions may change the flavor and texture of your cookies.

Do I have to use freshly squeezed orange juice or can I use bottled juice to make iced orange cookies?

No, you don’t have to use fresh-squeezed juice! But you will need a fresh orange or two on hand anyhow, since the recipe calls for orange zest. Adding fresh citrus to your baked goods is a smart way to jazz ’em up.

How can I make iced orange cookies my own?

If desired, sprinkle iced cookies with a little additional orange zest before the frosting sets. Or go whimsical by pressing an orange jelly bean, Skittle or fruit-slice candy into each. If you prefer a brighter taste, sub in a little lemon or lime juice for OJ in the icing. Orange you glad for sun-kissed orange desserts?

Can I freeze these orange cookies?

Yes—here's how to freeze cookies. For this recipe, we recommend freezing the raw cookie dough, and later thawing it before baking and icing the cookies. You can also bake the cookies before freezing, but don't freeze them with the icing on. Instead, prepare the icing while cookies thaw and then ice cookies as the recipe instructs.

—Rashanda Cobbins, Taste of Home Food Editor and Christine Rukavena, Taste of Home Senior Book Editor