The scent wafting through my kitchen was nothing short of enchanting—warm spices and a hint of citrus dancing together to create a moment of culinary bliss. That’s what you can expect when you whip up these delightful Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze. Not only do they come together in just about 30 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute treat or cozy gathering, but each bite offers a joyful explosion of flavor that will have you reaching for just one more. Plus, the zesty glaze adds a refreshing twist that elevates these cookies from delicious to unforgettable. So, are you ready to embark on a tasty adventure and fill your home with the warm aromas of the holidays? Let's dive into this sweet and spiced delight!
Why are Spiced Orange Clove Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of warm spices and zesty orange creates a cookie that’s perfect for cozy moments.
Quick to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in a flash, ideal for unexpected guests.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to wow your friends and family.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack. And if you love citrusy desserts, check out our Lemon Sugar Cookies for another tasty option!
Mouthwatering Glaze: The zesty glaze not only enhances the flavor, but also adds a beautiful finish.
These Spiced Orange Clove Cookies will instantly become a favorite in your baking repertoire!
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients
• The essentials for delectable treats!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – forms the base of these cookies, giving them structure and chewiness.
- Baking powder – helps the cookies rise and stay fluffy.
- Baking soda – ensures a lovely golden-brown hue and a soft texture.
- Ground cinnamon – provides warm, cozy spice flavors that are irresistible.
- Ground ginger – adds a warm, slightly sweet kick that elevates the cookie.
- Ground cloves – enhances the spice profile, making each bite more aromatic.
- Ground nutmeg – contributes a nutty warmth that complements the orange zest.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and a tender crumb; be sure it's softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the cookies beautifully and contributes to their texture.
- Large egg – binds the ingredients together while adding moisture.
- Zest of 1 orange – infuses the dough with vibrant citrus flavor, making these Spiced Orange Clove Cookies truly special.
- Fresh orange juice – adds additional moisture and a lovely zing.
- Vanilla extract – deepens the flavor profile with its sweet notes.
For the Zesty Glaze
- Powdered sugar – creates a sweet and smooth glaze that complements the cookies.
- Fresh orange juice – provides a tangy touch that brightens the glaze's flavor.
- Zest of 1 orange (for garnish) – adds a pop of color and enhances the citrus aroma.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This simple step sets the stage for baking perfectly golden Spiced Orange Clove Cookies, ensuring an even bake and easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt. Combine these dry ingredients thoroughly, allowing the spices to blend well for a deliciously aromatic cookie. Set aside this fragrant mixture as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, place the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream them together for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This creamy blend is essential for creating soft, tender Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with the right texture.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the egg, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat these ingredients together until fully combined and smooth. The addition of orange brings a wonderful zest and brightness to the cookies, enhancing their delightful flavor profile.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually introduce the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough to form. This balance ensures that your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies will be tender and moist, bursting with holiday spices.
Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring to space them about 2 inches apart. You should see little mounds of fragrant dough waiting to transform into beautiful cookies. This spacing allows them to expand while baking without touching.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Carefully place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should turn lightly golden and the centers will look set. Remember, you want to avoid overbaking to maintain that lovely soft texture in your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up while you prepare the delightful zesty glaze that will elevate their flavor.
Step 9: Prepare the Zesty Glaze
For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a bowl until smooth. If the glaze feels too thick, add a little more orange juice until you reach your desired consistency. This glaze adds a beautiful shine and extra tang to your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.
Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze
Once the cookies have completely cooled, it’s time to drizzle the zesty glaze over the tops using a spoon or piping bag for precision. Don’t be shy—let it cascade down for a lovely finish, and sprinkle additional orange zest on top for a pop of color and aromatic touch that makes these cookies irresistible.
Step 11: Allow the Glaze to Set
Finally, allow the glaze to set on the cookies for about 15 minutes before serving. This little wait ensures that your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies not only taste amazing but also look stunning. Now they’re ready to be enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee!
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Make sure they are in a tightly sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to come alive again.
Helpful Tricks for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Use softened butter instead of cold. This helps achieve a light, fluffy cookie dough.
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Don't Overmix: When blending wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies!
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Spacing Matters: Space the dough balls at least 2 inches apart; this allows the Spiced Orange Clove Cookies to spread without merging.
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Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking. Remove them when the edges are golden to avoid overbaking.
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Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze's thickness by adding small amounts of orange juice gradually. A too-thick glaze may not drizzle well over the cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature without losing their delightful soft texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, just drizzle the zesty glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set for about 15 minutes before serving. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious treats ready to share with family and friends, making your busy days a little sweeter!
What to Serve with Spiced Orange Clove Cookies?
The warmth of these cookies creates the perfect backdrop for a delightful meal that appeals to all your senses.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety chocolate drink enhances the cookies' spices and adds an indulgent touch to snack time. Pairing these two creates a comforting experience perfect for chilly days.
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Spiced Tea: Choose a chai or cinnamon-infused tea for a cozy match, where the spices intertwine beautifully with the cookies, making each bite feel like a warm hug.
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Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream balances the cookie’s spice, providing a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Brighten your dessert with a colorful mix of oranges, berries, and melons. The freshness of the fruit lightens the flavors, making for a refreshing end to your meal.
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Cheese Platter: Add a selection of mild cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, to balance the cookie’s sweetness and create an unexpected pairing that excites the palate.
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Mulled Wine: A warm glass of spiced mulled wine captures the essence of holiday flavors, making it a festive companion to these Spiced Orange Clove Cookies, perfect for gatherings.
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Coffee: A freshly brewed cup helps to enhance the cookie’s citrus notes while providing a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up. Pair it for a delicious treat experience.
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Honey Butter Spread: Slather some on a warm slice of bread for a sweet complement that echoes the richness of the cookies and adds a touch of cozy comfort.
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Spiced Orange Clove Cookies, transforming each bite into a personal flavor masterpiece!
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Nut-Free: Replace the butter with coconut oil and omit any nuts for a delightful, allergy-friendly treat.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
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Citrus Twist: Add zest from lemons or limes for an exciting twist, enhancing the brightness with every bite.
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks to satisfy your sweet tooth and create a delightful contrast to the spices.
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Cream Cheese Swirl: Incorporate a swirl of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie for a decadent touch that balances the spices beautifully.
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Dried Fruit: Mix in chopped dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins to add a chewy texture and a subtle sweetness.
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Spicy Kick: If you're a fan of heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dough for a surprising, spicy finish.
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Orange Blossom Water: Swap out a teaspoon of vanilla extract with orange blossom water for a fragrant, floral aroma that complements the citrus notes perfectly.
Now, take your taste buds on a delightful adventure, and be sure to let us know which variations become your favorites! If you’re craving more festive cookie options, try our delectable Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies, bursting with flavor and charm.
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best orange for the zest?
Absolutely! When selecting an orange, look for ones with a firm skin that has a vibrant color and is free from dark spots or blemishes. Organic oranges are fantastic since their skin tends to be more flavorful and less treated with pesticides. You want a fruit that smells fragrant and has a smooth, unblemished surface for the best zest!
How should I store Spiced Orange Clove Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container for up to 10 days. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I freeze Spiced Orange Clove Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, first allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until they're firm, usually about 1–2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat if desired!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to the butter being too soft or warm at the start. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted! You can also try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies maintain their shape and give you those lovely chewy edges you're aiming for.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
It's always best to keep human treats away from our furry friends. While the ingredients in Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are safe for humans, chocolate and certain spices can be harmful to pets. The butter and sugars could upset their stomachs, so I recommend enjoying these delicious cookies yourself!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Spiced Orange Clove Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Just ensure your baking powder and any other additives are also gluten-free. The cookie texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
Delightful Spiced Orange Clove Cookies for Cozy Moments
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Whisk
- spoon or piping bag
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- Zest of 1 orange orange zest
- 2 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Zesty Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange orange zest for garnish
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just combined to form a soft dough.
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and centers look set.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth, adjusting consistency as needed.
- Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and sprinkle additional orange zest on top.
- Allow glaze to set for about 15 minutes before serving.
