Name: Cozy Orange Clove Cookies for Festive Tea Time Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Use this for the best structure in your cookies.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure it’s fresh for effective rising.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Whole cloves can substitute if ground is unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Enhances aroma; replace with nutmeg for added depth.); 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom (This unique spice is optional.); 1/2 cup Sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Offers a richer flavor.); 1/4 cup Molasses (Deep flavor and moisture; dark corn syrup can substitute.); 1/4 cup Honey (Acts as a sweetener; maple syrup is a vegan alternative.); 1/2 cup Butter (Enhances moisture and flavor; use vegan butter if needed.); 1 large Egg (Helps bind ingredients; substitute with a flax egg for vegan option.); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Always use fresh zest for the best aroma.); 2 tablespoons Orange Juice (Contributes moisture and citrus flavor.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adjust for desired thickness.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Any plant-based milk is suitable for dairy-free option.)

The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house—there's little that can compare, right? Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Orange Clove Cookies, a cozy dessert that blends bright citrus with warming spices, giving you that perfect festive touch. These cookies are not only a delight to the senses but also come together quickly, making them an excellent choice for last-minute holiday baking or swapping at your next cookie exchange. Soft and crumbly with a hint of sweetness from molasses and honey, they’re simply irresistible, especially when paired with your favorite cup of tea. Curious about how these delightful treats come together? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Aromatic Experience: The blend of orange zest and cloves creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. It's an experience that beckons family and friends to gather around the table.

Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you'll whip up these cookies in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or festive gatherings.

Versatile for Gifting: These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Their glazed finish makes them an ideal gift for loved ones during the holiday season, just like our Oatmeal Cookies Chewy or the delightful Orange Breakfast Cake.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The delicious balance of sweet molasses and spicy warmth will have everyone reaching for seconds. You'll be the holiday hero with this delightful treat!

Perfect Pairing: Whether you serve them with tea or coffee, these cookies are a perfect complement, elevating your cozy moments into something truly magical.

Orange Clove Cookie Ingredients

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Use this for the best structure in your cookies.
Baking Soda – Ensure it’s fresh for effective rising, creating a light texture.
Ground Cloves – These warm spices provide a fragrant flavor; whole cloves can substitute if ground is unavailable.
Cinnamon – Another warm spice that enhances aroma, or replace with nutmeg for added depth.
Cardamom – This unique spice is optional; can be omitted if not on hand.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture, with brown sugar offering a richer flavor.
Molasses – Delivers deep flavor and moisture; dark corn syrup can be used as a substitute.
Honey – Acts as a sweetener for added flavor; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
Butter – Enhances moisture and flavor; feel free to use vegan butter if needed.
Egg – Helps bind the ingredients; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Orange Zest – Provides bright citrus notes; always use fresh zest for the best aroma.
Orange Juice – Contributes to moisture and citrus flavor; lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and serves as the base for your glaze; adjust for desired thickness.
Milk – Use this for glaze consistency, with any plant-based milk being suitable for a dairy-free option.

For a delightful holiday experience, these Orange Clove Cookies are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Clove Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's nice and hot for baking. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, providing a non-stick surface for the cookies. This preparation will make the baking process smooth and prevent any sticking mishaps.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cloves, cinnamon, and optional cardamom. This blend of dry ingredients forms the spice-infused base for your Orange Clove Cookies, enhancing their cozy flavor. Make sure to combine them thoroughly to distribute the baking soda and spices evenly throughout.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, molasses, and honey using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that perfect texture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Zest
Beat in the egg, orange zest, and orange juice into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully incorporated. The orange zest will add a refreshing citrus aroma, while the orange juice keeps the cookie dough moist. Ensure that the mixture is combined thoroughly but be careful not to overmix at this stage.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually, add the whisked dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined, forming a cohesive dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this helps maintain the soft, tender texture of your Orange Clove Cookies once baked.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough, placing them onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with the palm of your hand to ensure even baking. The cookies will spread a little, so giving them room will prevent them from merging together.

Step 7: Bake
Slide your cookie trays into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be slightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary, and you want them just right for that soft, chewy center.

Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them set before transferring to a wire rack. Once ready, carefully move the cookies to the rack to cool completely, preserving their delightful texture.

Step 9: Make Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Aim for a thickness that will allow the glaze to drizzle beautifully over the cooled cookies, enhancing their appearance without drenching them.

Step 10: Glaze Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over each cookie using a spoon or piping bag. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving or gifting your Orange Clove Cookies. The final touch of glaze adds a sweet sheen, making these treats irresistible to all who see them!

What to Serve with Orange Clove Cookies

The perfect pairing enhances the warm, spiced delight of these cookies, creating a cozy, inviting experience.

Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot in Earl Grey complements the citrus notes, creating a fragrant, soothing cup to enjoy with your cookies.
Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich, velvety hot cocoa enhances the spiciness of the cookies, perfect for a festive evening or chilly afternoon.
Honeyed Yogurt Parfait: The creamy yogurt topped with honey and fresh fruit contrasts beautifully with the spiced cookies, adding a fresh element.
Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in a chai latte harmonize with the cookies' flavors, turning snack time into a warm, comforting ritual.
Gingerbread Cake: Enjoy a slice of moist gingerbread cake alongside your cookies for a festive dessert combination that's bound to impress.
Candied Orange Slices: Their sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture make a delightful garnish, perfectly echoing the cookies' citrusy essence.

These pairings turn your snack into an experience, inviting friends and family to gather and savor the cozy flavors of the season.

Orange Clove Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix things up with these delightful adjustments to customize your Orange Clove Cookies to suit your taste!

Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. This adds a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content, giving your cookies a wholesome twist.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Not only do they enhance the texture, but they also bring a rich, buttery flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Citrus Zest Swap: Use lemon or lime zest instead of orange zest for a fresh, zingy flavor punch. This change brightens up the cookies, making them perfect for a different seasonal touch.
Spice it Up: Incorporate ginger or nutmeg to add extra warmth and complexity. Just a pinch can elevate your cookie experience, transforming them into something truly special.
Chocolate Chips: Mix in dark or white chocolate chips for a decadent contrast to the spiced base. This sweet addition will delight chocolate lovers and take your cookies to the next level.
Maple Infusion: Swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener that offers a unique flavor. The earthy sweetness of maple will pair wonderfully with the spices.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use vegan butter instead of regular butter to make these cookies completely dairy-free. They’ll still come out just as soft and flavorful.
Glaze Variations: Experiment with your glaze by adding a dash of orange juice or vanilla extract to it, amplifying the flavors and creating a luscious finish. This little addition makes every bite feel particularly indulgent.

For more delicious ideas and spins, don’t miss checking out our delightful Pineapple Cookies Tropical that offer a fruity take, or try the warm, comforting notes of our Creamy Pistachio White Chocolate Cookies. Let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Orange Clove Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them soft and delicious, ready for cozy snacking!

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to two weeks in an airtight container. Just let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to three months. You can freeze unbaked cookie dough as well; just scoop the dough and freeze the portions, then bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, simply heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked goodness to your Orange Clove Cookies!

Expert Tips for Orange Clove Cookies

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spices and ingredients for the best flavor; stale spices can mute the lovely aroma and depth of your Orange Clove Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Mix your dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing develops gluten that can lead to a dense texture.
Cool Before Glazing: Make sure the cookies cool completely before adding glaze; warm cookies will cause the glaze to melt and lose its delightful sheen.
Right Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies should be slightly golden around the edges for the ideal soft, tender center.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cookie, feel free to increase the amount of sugar in the dough or glaze to your liking.

Make Ahead Options

These Orange Clove Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. This way, the flavors meld wonderfully, enhancing the aroma and taste when baked. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop the dough onto lined baking sheets, flatten slightly, and bake as instructed. To maintain their delightful texture, be sure to cool the cookies completely before glazing, allowing the sweetness to set in beautifully. Enjoy stress-free holiday baking with these cozy treats!

Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select oranges for zesting?
Absolutely! When choosing oranges for zesting, seek out ones that are firm and have a bright, shiny skin. Look for fruit that feels heavy for its size, which indicates juiciness. Avoid oranges with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these may be overripe or dry.

How should I store my Orange Clove Cookies?
Store your Orange Clove Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain their soft and crumbly texture. If the weather is particularly warm or humid, consider placing a piece of bread in the container to help absorb moisture and keep them fresh longer.

Can I freeze the dough for my Orange Clove Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze the cookie dough, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out of the freezer and bake from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies come out too dry, it might be due to overmixing or too much flour. For next time, be sure to measure your flour accurately—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Additionally, consider adding a touch more honey or orange juice to the dough for added moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Definitely! These Orange Clove Cookies can easily be made vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for five minutes). Use vegan butter and maple syrup instead of honey, ensuring there are no animal products. Always double-check the labels of your ingredients, especially for allergies, such as gluten or dairy, if you're baking for someone with dietary restrictions.