As the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through the air, my heart leaps with joy—there’s something truly magical about baking cookies. Today, I’m excited to share my delightful Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze. This recipe is perfect for those days when comfort food and homemade treats are calling your name. Not only do these cookies require just a quick 15 minutes of prep time, but they also yield irresistibly soft, flavorful bites that are sure to impress family and friends. The vibrant orange zest and warming spices create a harmonious blend that evokes cozy memories with every bite. Plus, the zesty glaze adds a cheerful touch that makes these cookies perfect for any occasion. Ready to indulge in this seasonal treat and fill your kitchen with warmth? Let’s dive in and get baking!
Why Are Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Amazing?
Irresistible flavor: With a delightful bouquet of warming spices like cinnamon and cloves, these cookies bring comfort in every bite.
Quick prep: You only need 15 minutes to whip up the dough, perfect for busy days when you crave a homemade treat.
Zesty glaze: The fresh orange glaze adds an exciting sweetness that elevates the cookie experience, making them a standout dessert.
Versatile delight: Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to please everyone.
Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee, and if you're in the mood for more tasty cookies, you might also enjoy my Pistachio Cream Cookies or Butter Toffee Cookies.
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – helps give the cookies a perfect structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – ensures the cookies rise beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – contributes to a delightful texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds a warm, comforting flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger – brings a hint of spice to the mix.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – enhances the overall aroma, making Spiced Orange Clove Cookies truly special.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – complements the spices for a cozy warmth.
• ½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness of the dough.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – creates a rich and tender cookie.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cookies to perfection.
• 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together for a seamless dough.
• Zest of 1 orange – infuses the cookies with bright, zesty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice – enhances the orange flavor while keeping the dough moist.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cookies.
For the Zesty Glaze
• 1 cup powdered sugar – provides the sweetness needed for the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice – gives the glaze a tangy freshness.
• Zest of 1 orange – makes for a lovely garnish that brightens the glaze.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which ensures your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies won’t stick. This step is essential for easy cleanup and helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and the delightful spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon each of ground cloves and nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended, then set the bowl aside for the next steps.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat for approximately 2-3 minutes until the mixture appears light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma that signals cookie magic in the making.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Once fluffy, add 1 large egg, the zesty peel of 1 orange, 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue beating until all ingredients are fully combined, creating a smooth and vibrant batter that captures the essence of the Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually introduce the dry flour mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix on low speed, allowing the dough to come together without overmixing. Watch for the moment when everything is just combined; you want a soft, pliable dough that encapsulates all those warming spices.
Step 6: Form Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies to spread beautifully while baking, creating the perfect cookie shape and texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should emerge with lightly golden edges and set centers, signaling that the cookies are ready to take out—but be cautious to avoid overbaking for optimal softness.
Step 8: Cool Cookies
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling completely will help maintain their perfect texture and flavor.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
For the zesty glaze, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more orange juice if necessary; the glaze should be pourable but not too runny, ideal for drizzling.
Step 10: Drizzle and Garnish
Once your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the prepared glaze over the tops using a spoon or a piping bag for precision. Finish each cookie with a sprinkle of the zest from another orange for a beautiful and vibrant garnish that enhances the overall experience.
Step 11: Let the Glaze Set
Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes at room temperature before serving. This will create a lovely, shiny finish on your cookies, making them not only delicious but visually appealing for your family and friends to enjoy.
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own for unique flavor experiences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a friendly option.
Not only will you keep that delightful taste, but the gluten-free blend mimics the texture beautifully. -
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free buttery spread in place of butter.
Your cookies will still come out tender and delicious while catering to those dairy-free diets. -
Citrus Twist: Add lemon or lime zest in addition to the orange.
This will bring a refreshing tangy flavor that perfectly complements the spices, inviting a new twist to each bite. -
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
The nuts introduce a lovely texture contrast and a little extra heartiness to your cookies, creating a delightful surprise. -
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy note.
This added layer of heat will awaken your taste buds and make each bite memorable! -
Choco-Swirled: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks before baking for an indulgent treat.
The silky chocolate melting into the cookie adds a decadent sweetness that balances the spice beautifully. -
Holiday Spice Boost: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cardamom.
These hearty spices deepen the warm flavor profile, making them perfect for holiday celebrations! -
Orange Zest Glaze: For a more intense orange flavor, add extra orange zest to the glaze.
This enhances the citrus essence, giving your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies an even brighter finish.
Pair these delightful cookies with a brew or enjoy them alongside my Matcha Crinkle Cookies for a unique cookie platter that will impress your loved ones.
What to Serve with Spiced Orange Clove Cookies?
These delightful cookies are perfect for pairing with a variety of comforting and festive treats that enhance their warm, zesty flavors.
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Hot Cocoa: This rich, creamy drink brings extra warmth and pairs beautifully with the spicy notes of the cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast that balances the vibrant citrus and spice of the cookies.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai perfectly complement the clove and cinnamon in the cookies, creating a cozy pairing for any time of day.
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Cheese Platter: Including a selection of mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese enhances textural contrast and provides a delightful savory balance.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with citrus fruits brightens the palate and adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the orange notes in the cookies.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Sip on warm, spiced apple cider for a comforting fall-inspired drink that echoes the cookie’s flavors and adds a festive touch.
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Nutty Shortbread: Pairing these cookies with buttery, nutty shortbread cookies brings a nice crunch and contrasts with the chewy texture of the Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream drizzled over the cookies enhances their sweetness and offers a lovely, fluffy texture.
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Ginger Ale: The bubbly sweetness of ginger ale adds an unexpected twist, complementing the spices while keeping the experience light and refreshing.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients according to the recipe, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough directly onto your lined baking sheet and bake as directed. Additionally, you can glaze the cookies up to 3 days ahead of time; just store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade cookies with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spices and orange juice for vibrant flavors. Stale spices can dull the taste of your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies that lack the soft texture we love.
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set to avoid dry cookies.
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Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze with more orange juice if it’s too thick. A smooth glaze drizzles nicely and enhances the cookies' presentation and flavor.
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Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll maintain their softness and zesty flavors for days—if they last that long!
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Orange Clove Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness.
Refrigeration: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies, where they will stay good for about 1 week; just ensure they are sealed properly.
Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive their freshly baked taste.
Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best orange for my Spiced Orange Clove Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges, look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have smooth, unblemished skin. Ideally, the zest should be vibrant and fragrant, as this will infuse your cookies with the best flavor. Avoid oranges with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these can indicate ripeness issues.
How should I store my Spiced Orange Clove Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for about 1 week, ensuring they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze my Spiced Orange Clove Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough seems too crumbly, it could be due to over-measuring the flour. I recommend taking a moment to add a teaspoon of orange juice or milk at a time until the dough comes together. Mixing the wet and dry ingredients just until combined is essential to avoid dry cookies, so don’t overdo the mixing!
Are these cookies safe for dogs?
While Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are not toxic to dogs, they are not recommended for pets. Cookies often contain sugar and spices that can upset a dog’s stomach. If you're looking for a treat for your furry friend, consider baking a special batch of dog-safe cookies using dog-friendly ingredients.
How long will the glaze last on the cookies?
The glaze will set and give your cookies a beautiful finish in about 15 minutes at room temperature, but I recommend enjoying the cookies within a day or two for the best texture. It’s always best to glaze right before serving to maintain that lovely zesty shine!
Irresistible Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowls
- Electric Mixer
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour helps give the cookies a perfect structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ensures the cookies rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda contributes to a delightful texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger brings a hint of spice to the mix.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves enhances the overall aroma.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg complements the spices for a cozy warmth.
- ½ teaspoon salt balances the sweetness of the dough.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened creates a rich and tender cookie.
- 1 cup granulated sugar sweetens the cookies to perfection.
- 1 large egg binds the ingredients together for a seamless dough.
- Zest of 1 orange infuses the cookies with bright, zesty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice enhances the orange flavor while keeping the dough moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cookies.
For the Zesty Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar provides the sweetness needed for the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice gives the glaze a tangy freshness.
- Zest of 1 orange makes for a lovely garnish that brightens the glaze.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk until blended and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add 1 large egg, zest of 1 orange, 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients on low speed until just combined, forming a soft and pliable dough.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until they have lightly golden edges and set centers; watch to avoid overbaking.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice until smooth. Adjust consistency if needed.
- Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the cookies and sprinkle with orange zest as garnish.
- Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes at room temperature before serving.
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