1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a handheld electric mixer, beat the butter on high until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the granulated sugar, orange zest, fresh thyme, salt and pepper and mix again for another minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula, as needed.
2. With the mixer running on low, slowly add in the flour, followed by the fresh orange juice. Pack the dough tightly into a ball, separate it into 2 pieces and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, placing them in the fridge to chill for at least 1 hour, but preferably 3-4 hours.*
3. Preheat the oven to 350 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour a surface and roll out one of the discs of dough to about a 1/4″ thickness. Use mini cookie cutters to cut out the shapes of dough, then place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Repeat with remaining dough and second disc of dough.
4. Bake the cookies for 9-10 minutes, or until the cookies are very lightly browned on the edges. Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the pan before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve immediately!

Leftover cookies can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container, up to 1 week in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer. If freezing the cookies, thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.