These Mimosa Butter Cookies bring a delightful twist to classic shortbread with their sunny citrus notes and a splash of sparkling champagne. Light, tender, and dusted in powdered sugar, they are everything you want in a refined yet playful dessert.
Perfect for brunch gatherings, wedding showers, or simply treating yourself to something special, these cookies elevate the ordinary with minimal effort. Serve them alongside a glass of bubbly for the ultimate mimosa experience — in cookie form.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons orange juice
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1 tablespoon champagne or sparkling wine
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1 teaspoon grated orange zest
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
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Add orange juice, champagne, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
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Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.
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Divide the dough in half, form into logs, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
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Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling) | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
Kcal: 105 kcal | Servings: 36 cookies
The Origins of the Mimosa Inspiration
The mimosa drink was born in the 1920s and quickly became a staple at morning social events. Traditionally made with equal parts orange juice and champagne, it offers a refreshing, slightly fizzy start to the day. It’s no surprise that this lively, citrusy cocktail would find its way into the dessert world, where the combination of citrus and sparkle can be used to elevate even the humblest baked goods.
In Mimosa Butter Cookies, the spirit of the drink is maintained through the use of orange juice and zest, which provides brightness, and a splash of champagne or sparkling wine, which lends sophistication and a faintly fruity note. Together, they add a refined depth that pairs beautifully with the tender crumb of butter-based dough.
Why Mimosa Butter Cookies Stand Out
What sets these cookies apart from your standard butter or shortbread cookie is the thoughtful layering of flavor. The orange zest adds an aromatic citrus punch, while the champagne contributes a soft tang and lightly fermented profile. While the alcohol cooks off during baking, it leaves behind an intriguing complexity that balances the sweetness.
The texture is another star of the show. These cookies have that perfect shortbread snap on the outside with a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that speaks to a generous use of butter. The final dusting of powdered sugar not only adds visual charm but also rounds out the flavor, giving a soft, snowy finish that looks especially beautiful on a dessert platter.
Perfect for Brunch and Beyond
These cookies truly shine when served at brunch. Whether you’re hosting a Mother’s Day gathering, a spring picnic, or a wedding shower, Mimosa Butter Cookies make the perfect edible centerpiece. They’re light enough to enjoy in the morning but satisfying enough to stand out among the rest of the menu.
Because of their subtle flavors and sophisticated appearance, these cookies also work wonderfully as a companion to coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with an Earl Grey or chamomile blend, as well as a latte or cappuccino. For a true mimosa moment, serve them with a glass of actual mimosa on the side!
Versatility for All Seasons and Events
While citrus and bubbly might feel like springtime flavors, Mimosa Butter Cookies can be enjoyed year-round. In the summer, they’re refreshing and light. In the fall and winter, they bring a welcome brightness to heavier desserts and meals. During the holidays, their elegance makes them a hit on cookie trays or as homemade edible gifts.
You can also customize these cookies for different events by adjusting the shape or decoration. For example, you can roll the dough and use a scalloped cookie cutter for a wedding or baby shower, or shape them into rounds for a classic presentation. Sprinkle with edible glitter or a tiny candied orange peel for a festive look.
Tips for Making Them Perfect Every Time
To ensure that your Mimosa Butter Cookies come out beautifully every time, here are a few baking tips that professional bakers swear by:
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Use room-temperature butter: This ensures the dough creams properly and achieves the tender texture these cookies are known for.
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Don’t overwork the dough: After adding the flour, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill the dough: Chilling is essential for both flavor development and ease of slicing. It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
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Use fresh orange zest: The oils in the zest are what give that punchy citrus flavor. Grate it fresh right before adding.
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Choose a good-quality sparkling wine or champagne: While you don’t need to use an expensive bottle, avoid anything too sweet or artificial. Brut or extra dry styles work best.
Storage and Shelf Life
Mimosa Butter Cookies keep well, which makes them ideal for make-ahead events or for giving as part of a gift basket. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be frozen either before or after baking.
If freezing the dough, roll it into a log, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen — just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen in layers between parchment paper and stored in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Presentation and Serving Ideas
Presentation elevates these cookies from delicious to unforgettable. Here are a few simple ideas to showcase their beauty:
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Serve on a tiered tray alongside mini scones and fresh fruit for an afternoon tea vibe.
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Arrange in small pastry boxes tied with ribbon for a charming hostess gift or party favor.
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Dust with powdered sugar through a stencil for a decorative pattern.
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Stack in a clear glass jar with a handwritten tag for rustic gifting.
Because they’re small and elegant, these cookies are also perfect for dessert bars at events where guests want to sample multiple treats. You can pair them with lemon bars, raspberry thumbprints, or chocolate-dipped biscotti for a well-rounded spread.
Who Will Love These Cookies?
Almost everyone! But these cookies especially appeal to those who enjoy:
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Light, citrusy desserts
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Elegant treats for brunch or high tea
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Baked goods with subtle complexity
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Butter cookies with a twist
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Homemade gifts with a personal touch
They’re also a hit with people looking for an adult-leaning cookie that isn’t overly boozy but still has that cocktail-inspired charm.
Conclusion
Mimosa Butter Cookies are more than just a playful take on a popular brunch drink — they’re a celebration in cookie form. With their tender texture, delicate citrus flavor, and a kiss of sparkling wine, they offer the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. Whether you’re planning a baby shower, looking for something sweet to pair with tea, or just want to impress at your next brunch, these cookies will not disappoint.
Their easy preparation, beautiful presentation, and standout flavor profile make them a must-add to your baking repertoire. They look delicate, taste divine, and most importantly, they bring a little sparkle to everyday moments. So pour a glass of bubbly, preheat that oven, and bake yourself a batch of Mimosa Butter Cookies — because every day deserves a little celebration.