Name: Irresistible Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Helps the cookies rise); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Contributes to texture); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warmth); 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (Complements orange); 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (Key flavor); 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (Enhances spiciness); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (Creates a rich base); 1 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens and textures); 1 large egg (Binds the mixture); 1 zest of orange (Infuses cookies with citrus); 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice (Adds moisture); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Deepens flavor); 1 cup powdered sugar (Sweetens the glaze); 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (Adds citrus kick); 1 zest of orange (Garnish)

The scent of spiced orange clove cookies wafting through my kitchen is my secret ingredient for instant cheer. There’s something magical about baking, especially when it transforms simple ingredients into delightful treats. These Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are my go-to when I want to inject some warmth and comfort into my day. With their quick prep time and zesty glaze, they are an effortless way to impress family and friends alike. Plus, these cookies are a fantastic twist on traditional flavors, a crisp outer layer giving way to a soft, aromatic center. Trust me, your home will thank you as these cookies fill it with nostalgia and smiles. Who's ready to gather around a plate of these seasonal delights?

Why are these cookies so special?

Aromatic, every bite is infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and clove, perfectly balancing citrusy notes from the orange zest. Easy to make, even novice bakers can whip up these treats in just 15 minutes of prep time, leaving more room for cozy moments with family. Versatile and delightful for any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon snack. Crowd-pleasing notes of nostalgia will have everyone reaching for seconds! For more sweet inspirations, check out my Delicious Holiday Treats or explore easy Baking Hacks to elevate your skills. Enjoy the joy of baking with these irresistibly Spiced Orange Clove Cookies!

Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to craft delicious cookies!

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base for your cookies, providing structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Balances acidity and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and an inviting aroma to the cookies.
½ teaspoon ground ginger – Offers a subtle spice that complements the orange wonderfully.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves – A key flavor in Spiced Orange Clove Cookies, giving them depth.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Enhances the spiciness, perfect for cozy gatherings.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Wet Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a rich, buttery base for the cookies.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps them achieve a nice texture.
1 large egg – Binds the mixture together, ensuring a tender cookie.
Zest of 1 orange – Infuses the cookies with bright citrus notes.
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice – Adds moisture and enhances the orange flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A classic addition that deepens the flavor profile.

For the Zesty Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze while providing that necessary drizzle texture.
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice – Gives the glaze a fresh citrus kick; adjust for thickness if needed.
Zest of 1 orange (for garnish) – Adds a beautiful touch and extra flavor to finish!

With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to creating delightful Spiced Orange Clove Cookies that everyone will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for your delicious Spiced Orange Clove Cookies. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon each of ground cloves and nutmeg, alongside ½ teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly; set this aromatic mixture aside, as it will add a warm flavor to your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat this mixture for about 2–3 minutes until it turns light and fluffy—this step is crucial for creating a delightful texture in your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 large egg, the zest of 1 orange, 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed until fully combined, and the mixture achieves a smooth consistency with a bright, zesty aroma.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually mix the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients at low speed. Continue mixing until just combined, forming a soft dough. Be careful not to over-mix; you want those Spiced Orange Clove Cookies to remain tender and fluffy, so stop once there are no visible dry streaks.

Step 6: Portion the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This will allow the cookies to expand while baking, creating perfectly shaped Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with enough room to spread.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your cookies for 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; look for lightly golden edges and centers that appear set to ensure they aren’t overbaked, preserving their soft and chewy texture.

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. This resting time is essential for helping the cookies firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Zesty Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice in a bowl until you achieve a smooth glaze. If the mixture is too thick, add more orange juice, bit by bit, until it reaches the desired drizzling consistency suitable for your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.

Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze
Once your cookies have cooled completely, use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the orange glaze over each one, ensuring an even coating. For an attractive finish, sprinkle a bit of additional orange zest on top of the glaze to enhance flavor and presentation.

Step 11: Let the Glaze Set
Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before serving your delightful Spiced Orange Clove Cookies. This time will help the glaze firm up slightly, giving you a picture-perfect finish that adds an extra layer of sweetness!

Expert Tips for Spiced Orange Clove Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, resulting in a light, fluffy texture in your cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until just combined to prevent tough cookies. You want soft and tender Spiced Orange Clove Cookies!
Even Baking: Space your cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for spreading and even baking.
Perfect Glaze Consistency: If your glaze feels too thick, gradually add more orange juice. Aim for a drizzle that holds its shape but spreads slightly for that beautiful finish.
Cooling Time: Always allow baked cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents breakage.

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Orange Clove Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to a week. Just wrap them individually or place parchment between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezer: If you've made a large batch, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies warm, microwave them for 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Variations

Get ready to customize your cookies with these delightful twists that will elevate your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies to new heights!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a deliciously accommodating treat.
Vegan: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg and coconut oil for butter.
Nuts Galore: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips to marry the warm spices with rich chocolate decadence—you'll be in cookie heaven!
Extra Citrus: Use lemon or lime zest in addition to the orange for a bright, tangy twist that sparks joy in every bite.
Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground pepper to the dough for a surprising kick, perfectly balancing the sweet and spicy flavors.
Dried Fruit: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or dried apricots for a chewy texture and natural sweetness that complements the spiced base.
Icing Alternatives: For a different glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice instead of orange juice for a zesty, refreshing finish that plays off the spices well.

Each of these variations allows you to make the recipe uniquely yours! For more creative cookie ideas, check out my Delicious Holiday Treats or get inspired by my favorite Baking Hacks. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Spiced Orange Clove Cookies

Cozy up your dessert table with perfect pairings that enhance the delightful flavors of these cookies.

Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: This rich, creamy drink adds a layer of warmth that perfectly complements the spices in the cookies. Curl up by the fire with a mug in hand.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing contrast to the spiced flavors, creating a delightful balance in every bite. Top with crushed cookies for extra flair!
Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or a sharp cheddar provide a creamy, salty contrast that enhances the cookies' sweetness. Add tangerines or figs for an extra touch of elegance.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or ginger tea will not only soothe the soul but will also accentuate the citrus notes in your cookies. This pairing is perfect for cooling down after a baking session!
Orange Cranberry Sauce: This tangy sauce elevates the cookies’ festive vibe, making for a beautiful presentation when served on a holiday table. The freshness brightens each bite and brings out the orange zest.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Milkshake: Blend a rich milkshake with chocolate chips and a hint of orange to reinforce the flavors from the cookies. It's an indulgent treat that will delight both kids and adults.
Pecan Pie: A slice of pecan pie adds a sweet, nutty flavor that works beautifully with the spiced orange clove cookies. The contrasting textures and flavors will make everyone come back for more!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of decadence. The sweetness mixed with spice will create a heavenly experience that no one can resist.
Sparkling Cider: A glass of chilled sparkling apple cider provides a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors of the cookies and makes for an uplifting, festive libation.

Each of these pairings creates a delightful experience, enhancing the magic of your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies and turning any gathering into a celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Orange Clove Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and creaming the butter and sugar, then refrigerating the combined dough. Keeping the dough chilled helps maintain its texture and prevents spreading during baking. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and follow the usual baking instructions. As for the glaze, prepare that up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge in an airtight container; just give it a quick whisk before drizzling it over the cookies. Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavor of freshly baked cookies with minimal effort!

Spiced Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of oranges should I use for zesting?
Absolutely! Choose organic oranges if possible, as they are free from pesticides, making their zest safe to use. Any sweet variety, such as Navel oranges, works beautifully for that lovely citrusy flavor in your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies.

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to use parchment paper between layers if stacking!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very! If you want to save some time for later, freeze the cookie dough instead of baked cookies. To do this, scoop the dough into individual balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They'll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just add an extra minute or two to the baking time!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your Spiced Orange Clove Cookies spread excessively, it could be due to melted butter or too warm of a dough. Try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, which can help them hold their shape better. Also, ensure your butter is softened, not melted, during the creaming process to create that perfect texture.

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
When it comes to allergies, be cautious! The recipe includes wheat (flour), eggs, and dairy (butter), which are common allergens. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free. Vegan alternatives can be achieved using flax eggs and vegan butter. Always check labels to be safe!