As I pulled these Spiced Orange Clove Cookies from the oven, the enchanting scent of cinnamon and cloves filled my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to childhood holidays spent baking with family. In just 15 minutes of prep, these cookies come to life, infused with the vibrant zest of fresh oranges. They’re not only irresistibly soft and comforting, but you can also easily adapt the recipe to be gluten-free or dairy-free, making them perfect for everyone at your next gathering. Topped with a zesty glaze that adds a cheerful touch, these cookies are bound to bring joy to any occasion. Ready to fill your home with warmth and delightful aromas? Let’s get baking!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?
Deliciously Unique: These Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are infused with bright orange zest, creating a memorable flavor that stands out from the typical cookie crowd.
Time-Saving: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them a fantastic choice for quick holiday treats.
Customizable Options: Whether you’re catering to gluten-free or dairy-free friends, this recipe offers easy substitutions without compromising on taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Their warm spice aroma and tangy glaze make these cookies a delightful addition to any gathering, perfect alongside a cozy drink like chai tea or even Peach Bruschetta Whipped.
Cozy Memories: Baking these cookies is a wonderful way to create cherished moments, reminiscent of family traditions and festive celebrations, ensuring that every bite is filled with love.
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients
• For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the cookie structure. Substitution: Can use 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – Ensures cookies rise beautifully.
- Baking Soda – Contributes to a delightful texture.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm, comforting flavor.
- Ground Ginger – Introduces a hint of spice to the mix.
- Ground Cloves – Enhances aroma, making the cookies special.
- Ground Nutmeg – Complements spices for cozy warmth.
- Salt – Balances sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter (softened) – Creates a rich and tender cookie. Substitution: Coconut oil or dairy-free spread for dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens cookies to perfection.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together for seamless dough.
- Zest of 1 Orange – Infuses cookies with bright, zesty flavor.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Enhances moisture and orange flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor to cookies.
• For the Zesty Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Provides needed sweetness for the glaze.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Adds tangy freshness to the glaze.
- Zest of 1 Orange – Garnish that brightens the glaze.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper—this will prevent your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are well-combined to evenly distribute the spices, creating a flavorful base for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the mixture, ensuring your cookies turn out tender and delectable.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
To the creamed butter and sugar, add the large egg, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smoothly combined, creating a vibrant and aromatic dough that captures the essence of your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the bowl of dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should remain soft and slightly sticky, which is key to achieving the perfect cookie texture.
Step 6: Form Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart. This will allow each cookie to spread nicely while baking, resulting in beautifully shaped Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they are ready when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear set. Removing them at the right time prevents dryness and keeps them soft.
Step 8: Cool
After baking, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up slightly. Then, gently transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the texture to develop further.
Step 9: Prepare Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a bowl to create the zesty glaze. Stir until the mixture is smooth and adjust the thickness as desired—thicker for drizzling or thinner for a light coat.
Step 10: Drizzle Glaze
Once your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies have cooled, drizzle the zesty glaze over the tops of each cookie. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional orange zest on top to enhance the flavor and make the cookies visually appealing.
Step 11: Set Glaze
Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes at room temperature before serving. This step creates a lovely sheen and ensures the glaze adheres properly, making your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies a delightful treat to enjoy or share with others.
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to adapt these Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze to suit your taste or dietary needs, making them even more delightful!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour for gluten-free cookies.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out unsalted butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free spread to make these cookies dairy-free.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate lemon or lime zest for a refreshing tang that contrasts beautifully with the spices.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that enhances the cookie’s overall flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight heat that’ll awaken your taste buds beautifully.
- Choco-Swirled: Fold in chocolate chips before baking to add a rich, decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Holiday Flavor Boost: Substitute some spices with cardamom or allspice to evoke even more seasonal cheer.
- Chewy Cinnamon Variation: Replace a portion of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for extra chewiness and a hint of molasses flavor.
These variations can also beautifully synergize with other treats—try pairing your cookies with Thick Chewy Cookies or alongside a warm slice of Savory Bread Gruyere for a festive spread. Enjoy the creativity of baking and making each recipe your own!
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. This will help preserve the taste, especially with the zesty glaze.
Freezer: To extend their delightful essence, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warmed up, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What to Serve with Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze
Indulging in the sweet, spiced aroma of fresh-baked cookies feels like a warm hug, especially when creating a delightful spread to accompany them.
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Hot Cocoa: A rich and creamy cup of hot cocoa pairs beautifully with the warm spices in the cookies, creating a cozy comfort food experience.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea complement the clove and cinnamon notes in the cookies, enhancing each bite with warmth.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate makes for a heavenly contrast to the zesty glaze, adding a luscious texture.
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Fresh Orange Segments: Bright and juicy orange segments offer a refreshing contrast, enhancing the citrus notes while providing a burst of freshness.
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Gingerbread Men: This classic holiday treat adds another layer of festive charm, with its spicy flavor harmonizing wonderfully with the orange clove cookies.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like Brie or goat cheese, balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful savory-sweet duet.
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Mulled Wine: A glass of spiced mulled wine not only warms the soul but also complements the cookies’ spices, making for a nostalgic holiday duet.
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Apple Crisp: This warm, cinnamon-spiced dessert boasts a comforting texture that pairs famously with the soft cookies and their vibrant orange zest.
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Spiced Nut Medley: Crunchy, seasoned nuts add a salty and nutty crunch, offsetting the sweetness of the cookies while bringing an additional layer of flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze are perfectly suited for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. To maintain their delightful texture, allow the dough to come to room temperature before baking. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply drizzle the zesty glaze over the cooled cookies, and you’ll have warm, homemade treats with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Expert Tips for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spices and orange juice for elevated flavors; stale ingredients can make your cookies taste flat.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can result in tough cookies. Remember, a soft dough is key for a delightful texture.
Bake with Care: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies are done once the edges are golden and centers set. This prevents dryness and ensures they’re perfectly soft.
Cool Completely: Let cookies cool on a wire rack after baking; this helps set their chewy texture before adding glaze.
Storage Secrets: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge, if they last that long!
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze Recipe FAQs
What type of oranges should I use for the zest and juice?
Absolutely! Fresh navel oranges are perfect for zest and juice due to their sweetness and vibrant flavor. Look for firm and fragrant oranges with smooth skin—these will give you the best taste for your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies!
How should I store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months!
What if my dough seems too sticky or dry?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! You can sprinkle in a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a manageable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of fresh orange juice at a time. Mixing gently will help reach the perfect balance without compromising the texture.
Are these cookies suitable for my gluten-free or dairy-free friends?
Very! For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For a dairy-free version, swap out the unsalted butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free spread. Both adaptations taste fantastic and ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies!
How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
Great question! To adjust your glaze’s thickness, simply add more powdered sugar to thicken it—start with a tablespoon at a time. If you want it thinner, adding more fresh orange juice works wonders. Aim for a smooth consistency that drizzles easily over your cookies without running off completely!
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze for Cozy Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set.
- Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice to create the zesty glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and optionally sprinkle with additional orange zest.
- Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before serving.
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