Orange Chocolate Cookies

Sweeties, get your taste buds ready for a delightful twist with these Orange Chocolate Cookies โ€“ a match made in dessert heaven! Imagine this: the zesty kick of fresh orange zest meets the dreamy depth of Dutch-processed cocoa powder in each bite, creating a sensory delight like no other. And let me tell you, these gems aren’t just scrumptious, they’re gluten-free too! With their irresistible crispy outside and a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth inside, they’re every chocolate lover’s dream come true.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.

A stack of Flourless Chocolate Orange Cookies displayed on a white plate with oranges slices surrounding it

Want to Save This Recipe, Boo?

I'll email this recipe to you, so you can come back to it later!

These Orange Chocolate Cookies are like little bites of bliss! Dense, chewy, and oh-so-addicting, they’re the perfect blend of zesty citrus and rich chocolate. You know it’s a winning combo!

And guess what? These cookies are not just anytime treats, they’re also the ultimate party-pleasers, especially for your gluten-free friends. Imagine walking into a gathering with these goodies in tow โ€“ you’re sure to be the hit of the party!

If you love baking with orange, you’ve got to try my orange blueberry muffins, orange and white chocolate truffles, orange cinnamon rolls, and orange no-bake cheesecake! You won’t be disappointed.

Why You’ll Love These Flourless Orange Chocolate Cookies

  • They’re flourless! This makes them gluten-free, but I promise no one will be missing it!
  • They’re sensational!  The chewy texture is to die for, with a chocolate flavor that’s beyond intense.
  • Chocolate + Orange. Citrus flavors and chocolate go together amazingly, especially orange. You can use a variety of oranges for a more nuanced flavor or simply use your standard navel orange.
  • Easy cookie recipe. The ingredient list is short and sweet and they mix up in just a few minutes.

Ingredients to Make Orange Chocolate Cookies

I had a combination of blood oranges and navels in my fridge, but any will do for this cookie.  I definitely added the blood orange flavor because their seasonal window will be gone before we know it.  Without flour, the egg whites help to stiffen the batter and give it the structure of a cookie.

  • Confectioners’ sugar: The texture of powdered sugar works perfectly to blend into the chocolate cookie batter.
  • Dutch-processed cocoa powder: For the best flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder. It’s been treated with an alkalizing agent, which makes the cocoa slightly less bitter.
  • Orange zest: This adds plenty of orange flavor to these dense chewy chocolate cookies.
  • Egg whites: These help to stiffen up the batter since we’re cooking without flour. It’s what gives these flourless cookies their structure.
  • Pure vanilla extract: Sticking with pure vanilla means your vanilla is gluten-free, but if you’re using an imitation or less quality vanilla, be sure to check that it’s gluten-free.
Ingredients to make chocolate orange cookies on the table.

How to Make Orange Chocolate Cookies

These cookies go together without any need for an electric mixer. They mix up quickly and then bake into perfection.

  1. Whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and orange zest in a medium-sized bowl.
  2. Slowly whisk in the egg whites and vanilla extract until everything is combined. Continue folding the batter with a spatula. The mixture will get harder and harder to mix and will be quite thick. This is completely normal.
  3. Spoon the batter using a tablespoon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Be sure to leave an inch of space between cookies on the baking tray.
  4. Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes and then allow them to cool.
A collage of images showing how to make chocolate orange cookies.
  1. Sprinkle the cooled cookies with confectioner’s sugar and serve. I love them warm.
Chocolate orange cookies on a wire rack lightly dusted with powdered sugar.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Cookies

  • Quality Ingredients: The quality of the cocoa powder you use is crucial for the best-tasting cookies. Look for a good-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder. It has a deeper and richer chocolate flavor that enhances the overall taste of your cookies. The same goes for the orange zest – use fresh oranges for a bright and strong citrus flavor.
  • Egg Whites: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature. Cold egg whites won’t incorporate as smoothly into the mixture.
  • Mixing: When mixing the cookie batter, it may get quite thick – don’t worry, this is normal. Ensure to fold the batter well, so all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Don’t overmix, though, as this can make the cookies tough.
  • Baking: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be set on the edges but slightly soft in the middle. They will firm up as they cool, so donโ€™t wait for them to completely harden in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper: Always use parchment paper when baking these cookies. It prevents them from sticking and helps achieve that delightful texture – crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.
  • Resting Time: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting period helps them set and gives you the best texture.
  • Different Citrus Zests: If you’re not an orange fan or simply want to try a new flavor, lemon or lime zest would also pair well with the chocolate. The freshness of these citrus fruits will complement the richness of the cocoa.
  • Add Nuts: For a crunchier texture, consider adding chopped nuts to your cookie batter. Almonds, pecans, or walnuts would work well with the chocolate and orange flavor. If you’re using nuts, remember to toast them lightly before adding to bring out their full flavor.
  • Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a surprising twist to your cookies. The subtle heat balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor. Alternatively, a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg could also add a nice warmth.
  • Chocolate Chips or Chunks: For chocolate lovers, adding chocolate chips or chunks to the batter can make the cookies even more indulgent. Use dark chocolate for a less sweet but deeper chocolate taste.
  • Swap Vanilla Extract: For a different twist, try using almond extract or peppermint extract instead of vanilla. Both can give your cookies an exciting new flavor profile.
Two Flourless Chocolate Orange Cookies topped with powdered sugar on a white plate with a light dust of orange zest.

What to Serve With Flourless Chocolate Orange Cookies

How to Store Chocolate Orange Cookies

For best results, store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can not make the dough ahead and store it to bake later.

How long will chocolate orange cookies last?

Well, they may not last long if everyone devours them! But if you have some left, they will last up to three days stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

Can I freeze flourless chocolate orange cookies?

Yes, you can for up to three months. They will keep their chewy texture but may lose the crispy edges.

Stack of chocolate orange cookies on a plate with a bite missing from the top one and a glass of milk in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use Dutch cocoa?

No, but I find that it makes the chocolate flavor a bit richer and smoother. You can also use natural cocoa powder or even extra black cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor.

Can I leave out the egg whites?

Unfortunately, you canโ€™t. The egg whites are crucial to making these flourless cookies as itโ€™s what gives them their structure.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, of course! You can add white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet depending on your preference.

Get ready to fall head over heels for these Chocolate Orange Cookies! They’re the epitome of decadence, and honey, you won’t even think about the gluten being gone! Whip up a batch of these flourless wonders for your next shindig and watch as everyone’s eyes light up โ€“ I bet they won’t even guess the secret! If you like these cookies, you will also love these Chocolate Sugar Cookies and Hot Chocolate Cookies.

*Did you make this recipe? Please give it a star rating and leave comments below!* Post a photo of how your version of the recipe came out on Instagram (using #grandbabycakes)!!

A stack of chocolate orange cookies on a plate in front of a glass of milk and an orange.

Flourless Chocolate Orange Cookies

These chocolate orange cookies are perfectly chewy and fudgy! The combination of chocolate and orange is amazing! Even better, they're flourless making a delicious cookie that's gluten-free!
4.16 from 19 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Course: Dessert
Servings: 12 cookies

Ingredients

  • 2 ยผ cups confectioners’ sugar
  • ยพ cup dutch processed cocoa powder
  • ยฝ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract make sure its gluten free

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Whisk together confectioner’s sugar, cocoa powder, salt and orange zest in a medium sized bowl.
  • Slowly whisk in egg whites and vanilla extract until combined. Continue folding the batter with a spatula. The mixture will get harder and harder to mix and will be quite thick. This is completely normal.
  • Spoon tablespoons of batter on parchment lined baking sheet inch apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes then cool.
  • Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar and serve. I love them warm.

Notes

Don’t skimp on the orange zest! It’s what brings all the orange flavor to these cookies.
Don’t worry if the cookie dough is thick, it’s actually supposed to be that way.
Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the pan before moving them to a wire rack. This allows them to set up a bit more.
These cookies spread! Be sure to leave space in between your cookies.

Nutrition

Calories: 108kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 112mg | Potassium: 98mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Mention @GrandbabyCakes or tag #grandbabycakes!
Filed Under:  Cookies, Dessert and Baking

Comments

  1. I’m wary of chocolate and citrus…but I will got there with you because they look worthy of an exception ๐Ÿ™‚

  2. Do I ever feel sorry for anyone who can’t enjoy glorious gluten! These cookies make me feel a bit less sorry for them, though, they look amazing!

  3. I’ve made flourless brownies before and they were AMAZING! Gotta try these cookies now. I know they will be good!

  4. So true, Jocelyn! I love all things gluten, but my husband can’t eat it anymore. Recipes like this one are priceless. They help people not miss out so much. The citrus is genius!

  5. Ah, the flavors in these simple yet mouthwatering cookies, Jocelyn!! Dark chocolate with orange zest is a combination that I’m craving right now too. Beautiful, creative and delicious! Thank you for sharing!

    1. Thank you so much Traci! Sometimes the simplest flavors give the biggest impact.

  6. Love the combination of chocolate and orange.. so I can imagine how delicious these cookies must be. Beautifully captured too!

    1. Thanks for your feedback Karen and I will totally take that into consideration in the future. Overall, the sugar content per cookie is pretty low even still.

  7. I just adore the chocolate-orange combination so much! These look amazing – I love the deep chocolate flavor you get from flourless cookies.

4.16 from 19 votes (10 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating