Orange Butter Cookies with Grand Marnier Glaze

For the cookies

10-1/2 oz. (2-1/3 cups) unbleached all-purpose flour; more as needed

1/2 tsp. table salt

1/4 tsp. baking powder

8 oz. (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 Tbs. finely grated orange zest

2 large egg yolks

1 whole egg

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 

For the glaze

4 oz. (1 cup) confectioners’ sugar

2 Tbs. Grand Marnier

1-1/2 Tbs. heavy cream; more as needed

2 tsp. finely grated orange zest

Pinch of table salt 

 

In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, sugar, and zest on medium speed until well blended, about 2 minutes. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing until blended after each addition. Add the vanilla extract along with the last yolk. Mix until well blended, about 1 minute. Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until moist clumps form, about 1 minute. 

Turn the dough out onto a work surface and divide into 2 equal piles on sheets of plastic wrap. Using the plastic as an aid, knead into a smooth dough, shape into flat 5-inch disks, and wrap in the plastic. Refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes. (The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.) 

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 350°F. Line 2 or more cookie sheets with parchment or nonstick baking liners. 

Working with one disk at a time, roll the dough between lightly floured parchment or on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Dust with additional flour as needed. Using a 2-1/2-inch cookie cutter, cut out shapes. Arrange them about 1 inch apart on the cookie sheets. Gather, re-roll, and cut the dough scraps up to 2 more times. 

Bake cookie for 9 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.  Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.  

In a medium bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, Grand Marnier, cream, zest, and salt. Mix until well blended and smooth. If necessary, add more cream a few drops at a time for a thin, spreadable consistency.

Top each cookie with about 1/2 tsp. of the glaze, using the bottom of the measuring spoon to spread the glaze to within 1/4 inch of the edge.

Let sit at room temperature until the glaze is set, about 2 hours. Serve the cookies immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. 

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