Name: Delicious Orange Clove Cookies for a Cozy Holiday Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 102 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon baking soda (ensure it’s fresh); 1 teaspoon ground cloves (can swap with allspice); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (increase for more flavor); ½ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional to omit); zest of 1 orange (fresh zest is best); ¼ cup orange juice (fresh or bottled); ¾ cup molasses (light corn syrup can be used); ½ cup honey (maple syrup is a good substitute); ½ cup butter (can be swapped with vegan margarine); 1 large egg (a flax egg can be used for vegan); 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze; adjust to taste)

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The first time the scent of fresh orange and warm spices filled my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. These Orange Clove Cookies not only evoke the cozy joy of the holiday season but also create a comforting environment all year round. Imagine soft, crumbly cookies infused with the aromatic embrace of clove and a zesty pop of orange—perfect for those times when you crave a delightful homemade treat. What’s more, they’re a breeze to whip up, making them an excellent choice for last-minute gifts or festive gatherings. Plus, they pair perfectly with your favorite warm beverage, elevating tea time to a whole new level! So, are you ready to bring the heartwarming essence of the holidays into your kitchen?

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Why are Orange Clove Cookies irresistible?

Aromatic Treat: The delightful blend of cloves, cinnamon, and zesty orange creates an enchanting aroma that will fill your kitchen with festive cheer.

Comforting Texture: Soft and crumbly, these cookies have the perfect texture for cozy snacking, making them a perfect companion for hot cocoa or tea.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, whipping up a batch is a breeze—ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs!

Versatile Flavor: While perfect for the holidays, their unique flavor profile means you can enjoy these cookies year-round. Try adding pecans or swapping orange with lemon for a twist!

Gift-Worthy: Wrapped nicely, they make wonderful gifts, adding a personal touch to any holiday platter. Include them alongside your favorite Pistachio Cream Cookies or Caramel Chocolate Cookies for a delightful spread!

Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for proper rise.
Ground cloves – Adds warmth; can swap with allspice if you don’t have cloves on hand.
Ground cinnamon – Enhances sweetness; you might want to increase for a more pronounced flavor.
Ground cardamom – Offers a unique flavor; optional to omit if unavailable.
Zest of orange – Infuses bright flavor; fresh zest is best, but you can use lemon zest if needed.
Orange juice – Provides flavor and moisture; fresh or bottled is acceptable.
Molasses – Adds sweetness and depth; light corn syrup can be used for a milder flavor.
Honey – Brings sweetness and moisture; maple syrup is a good substitute.
Butter – Gives richness and texture; can be swapped with vegan margarine for a dairy-free version.
Egg – Serves as a binding agent; a flax egg can replace it for a vegan option.
Powdered sugar (for glaze) – Contributes sweetness and texture; adjust according to desired glaze sweetness.

These Orange Clove Cookies are sure to become a favorite! Whip up a batch to share cozy moments with loved ones during the holiday season or any time you’re in need of a delightful homemade treat.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Clove Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and the spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom. In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter and ¾ cup of molasses with ½ cup of honey until light and fluffy. Add in 1 egg and the juice of an orange, mixing well before gradually folding in the dry ingredients until fully combined.

Step 2: Chill Dough
Once your dough for the Orange Clove Cookies is fully mixed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Place the wrapped dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the dough easier to roll into perfect little cookie balls when you’re ready to bake.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills and transforms in the fridge, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and be ready to enjoy right after shaping them. Prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking and to help with easy cleanup.

Step 4: Shape Cookies
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and scoop out tablespoon-sized portions. Roll them into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart, allowing room for spreading. Aim for uniform size to ensure that all your Orange Clove Cookies bake evenly, about 12 to a sheet.

Step 5: Bake
Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. You want to see the edges set while the centers remain soft for that perfect crumbly texture. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Glaze
To finish your Orange Clove Cookies with a delightful glaze, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of orange juice in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and drizzle it over your completely cooled cookies, allowing some to run down the sides for a lovely presentation. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving or storing.

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Make Ahead Options

These Orange Clove Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The chilling not only melds the delightful spices, but it also makes the dough easier to shape. If you’re looking to plan even further ahead, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for several weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake the chilled dough directly from the fridge, and after cooling, drizzle the glaze over the cookies for that finishing touch. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade treats to share with loved ones with minimal hassle!

Orange Clove Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to customize these cozy treats to make them your own, exploring delightful twists and substitutions!

Lemon Twist: Swap the orange zest for lemon or lime for a fresh, citrusy zing that brightens the flavors.
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the dough for an extra crunch and flavor depth. They also bring a lovely contrast to the soft cookie texture.
Dried Fruit Addition: Mix in ½ cup of dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins for a chewy element that complements the spices beautifully. This twist adds a pop of color and sweetness in every bite!
Spice Blend Swap: Use a pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for a seasonal shortcut that captures all the cozy flavors of fall. This gives your cookies a comforting aroma and taste reminiscent of holiday baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive bites. The result will still be delicious and crumbly!
Vegan Cookies: To make these Orange Clove Cookies vegan, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. They’ll be just as delightful!
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a subtle kick that enhances the warming spices, perfect for those who enjoy a little extra heat in their sweets.

As you experiment, consider pairing these cookies with your favorite beverages. Serving them alongside a cup of warm cocoa or tea will create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for cozy gatherings. Why not include them with a platter of Pistachio Cream Cookies or Browned Butter Cookies to offer a variety of flavors? Enjoy the delightful adventure of baking!

How to Store and Freeze Orange Clove Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: For slightly longer storage, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Lay parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy your Orange Clove Cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat them in an oven at a low temperature until warm.

Helpful Tricks for Orange Clove Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use softened butter at room temperature to ensure it creams well with sugars, resulting in a light and airy cookie.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies during baking. For the best texture, they should remain soft in the center and only be lightly browned on the edges.
Cooling Time: Allow your Orange Clove Cookies to cool completely before glazing. If they’re too warm, the glaze will melt and lose its charming appearance.
Flavor Depth: For a stronger aromatic profile, feel free to increase the ground cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the holiday essence of your cookies.
Chill Dough: Chilling isn’t just for convenience; it allows the flavors to blend beautifully, ensuring each bite of your Orange Clove Cookies is deliciously satisfying.

What to Serve with Orange Clove Cookies?

Nothing complements the warm spices and zesty notes of these cookies quite like delightful beverages and treats.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture creates a delicious contrast with the crumbly cookies, perfect for a cozy evening.
Earl Grey Tea: The subtle notes of bergamot in this tea enhance the orange flavor, creating a harmonious pairing for afternoon snacking.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These add a festive crunch and sweetness that balances the spiced cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and aromatic, this drink echoes the cookies’ flavors, making it a heartwarming accompaniment.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: The seasonal flavors of this beloved beverage create a cozy connection, perfect for festive brunches.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop atop a warm cookie melts together beautifully, providing a delightful hot-and-cold contrast.
Gingerbread Men: These classic holiday treats bring more spice to the table, creating a festive assortment for cookie platters.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a unique contrast to the sweet, spiced cookies.

Each pairing not only enhances your cookie experience but elevates the mood of your gatherings, making every bite a special moment to savor!

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Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Orange Clove Cookies, use fresh citrus. Select firm oranges with bright skin and a sweet aroma. Avoid any that show dark spots or blemishes.

What is the best way to store Orange Clove Cookies?
To keep your cookies soft and flavorful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they remain sealed to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Orange Clove Cookies?
Very! Freeze your cookies by placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s a good idea to layer parchment paper between each cookie to avoid sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it may be due to the butter being too warm or not adequately chilling the dough. To remedy this for future bakes, ensure the butter is at room temperature (not melted) and chill the dough for at least 1 hour. You can also try adding a bit more flour for stability.

Are Orange Clove Cookies suitable for people with allergies?
If you have allergies, there are great substitutions! Use gluten-free flour for those avoiding gluten, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan option. Always check labels for allergens in the ingredients you choose, like honey and butter.

How do I know when my cookies are perfectly baked?
For the best results, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be gently golden on the edges while remaining soft in the center. The whole baking process takes about 10-12 minutes, allowing the cookies to maintain that delightful crumbly texture you’re going for!