Name: Festive Orange Clove Cookies for Cozy Holiday Moments
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cloves (Use less for milder flavor); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup unsalted butter (Can substitute with margarine); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs (Flax eggs or applesauce can be used for vegan version); 2 tablespoons orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar (For optional icing)

The rich aroma of cloves and zest of fresh oranges wafting through my kitchen always brings back the warmth of holiday gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Orange Clove Cookies, a delightful fusion that’s perfect for festive cookie trays or cozy family evenings. Not only are these cookies easy to make, but they also open doors for creativity with variations like gluten-free options or a charming chocolate drizzle. Each bite offers a symphony of warm spices that enchants taste buds while filling your home with inviting scents. Trust me, these cookies are destined to bring happiness, whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing them with loved ones. Ready to embark on this delightful baking adventure? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Orange Clove Cookies irresistible?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: The scent of freshly baked cookies filled with cloves and zesty orange is simply heartwarming, creating a cozy atmosphere in your home.

Endless Variations: Whether you prefer a gluten-free version, crunchy nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate, these cookies can adjust to your taste preferences.

Quick and Easy: With a straightforward recipe, even beginner bakers can whip up batches of these delicious cookies in no time.

Perfect for Gifting: Pack them into decorative boxes or tins, and you have the ideal homemade gift for friends and family this holiday season—much like my Pumpkin Smores Cookies or Meringue Ghost Cookies.

Deliciously Shareable: These cookies are a hit at gatherings! Their delightful flavor and soft texture make them a cherished treat among family and friends.

Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Baking powder – Helps cookies rise and achieve that light, fluffy texture we adore.
Baking soda – Works in harmony with the acids to create delightful lift in every bite.
Salt – Elevates the flavors and perfectly balances the sweetness.
Ground cloves – Infuses a warm, aromatic essence—use less if you prefer a milder flavor.
Ground cinnamon – Adds a cozy, familiar spice that warms the spirits.
Unsalted butter – Creates a rich, tender texture; can substitute with margarine, but expect a taste difference.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies while contributing to their delightful texture.
Brown sugar – Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to each cookie.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and enhances structural integrity; flax eggs or applesauce can be utilized for vegan versions.
Orange zest – Bursts with fresh, citrus aroma and flavor, making the cookies truly special.
Vanilla extract – Deepens the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Powdered sugar – Ideal for optional icing, adding sweetness and a decorative finish on top of your Orange Clove Cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Clove Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your sweet adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your Orange Clove Cookies won’t stick. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies with golden edges.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices, ensuring every bite of your Orange Clove Cookies is filled with delightful flavors.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This creates a rich texture that enhances the buttery goodness of your cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, gently mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated. This step introduces bright citrus notes that will infuse your Orange Clove Cookies with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon to fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to dense cookies. You want the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor in your Orange Clove Cookies.

Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each to allow for spreading. This helps your cookies to bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden color around the edges.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers appear set. Keep an eye on them; you want the cookies to be soft yet lightly toasted, resulting in the perfect texture for your Orange Clove Cookies.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows the cookies to firm up slightly before you transfer them to wire racks. After cooling completely, your delectable Orange Clove Cookies are ready for icing or serving!

Step 9: Optional Icing
If you wish to add a sweet touch, mix powdered sugar with a little liquid (like milk or orange juice) until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cookies. This delightful icing adds a finishing touch that complements the warm spices beautifully in your Orange Clove Cookies.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once your cookies are beautifully iced (if you chose to do so), serve them on a decorative platter or gift them in lovely boxes. These Orange Clove Cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive gatherings, as every bite is a warm hug of flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Orange Clove Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for snacking.

Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness, place cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time for perfectly fresh Orange Clove Cookies.

Reheating: To warm up baked cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature for the best flavor!

Orange Clove Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these Orange Clove Cookies and make them your own with delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for delicious cookies that everyone can enjoy. You won’t even notice the difference!
Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for an extra crunch. They provide a wonderful contrast to the tender cookie texture, enhancing each bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a luxurious touch. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
Cranberry Surprise: Incorporate dried cranberries into the mix for a fruity twist. They not only add vibrant color but also a tart, chewy texture that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Cinnamon Twist: Replace some of the ground cloves with additional cinnamon for a familiar flavor boost. This variation will warm your kitchen with comforting aromas that evoke cozy memories.
Iced Version: Create a citrus icing using powdered sugar and orange juice to drizzle over the cookies. This adds a sweet, tangy contrast that enhances the orange flavor in the cookies.
Maple Flavor: Swap out granulated sugar for maple sugar for a richer, deeper flavor. This adds a lovely hint of caramel that complements the warm spices beautifully.
Zestier Bites: Add more orange zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor. This elevates the freshness of your cookies, making them even more irresistible!

These variations can easily elevate your cookie experience, much like the decadent flavors found in my Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or the fun twists of Halloween Oreo Cookies. Enjoy personalizing your delicious Orange Clove Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Orange Clove Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. Alternatively, scoop out the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; simply bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for the best results. For the highest quality, make sure to store the dough in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, just preheat your oven, place the dough on a baking sheet, and enjoy freshly baked cookies that taste just as delightful as if made on the spot!

Expert Tips for Orange Clove Cookies

Chill the Dough: If your cookie dough feels too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help maintain their shape when baking.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use the spoon and level method for measuring flour. Accurate measurements prevent excessive spreading and ensure the perfect texture for your Orange Clove Cookies.
Mixing Technique: Use a stand or hand mixer on medium speed while creaming butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This air incorporation is key to achieving soft, tender cookies.
Don’t Overmix: After adding dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser cookies, which we’re trying to avoid in these delightful Orange Clove Cookies.
Cooling Time Matters: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps prevent breakage and ensures the perfect texture.
Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to try variations like adding chocolate drizzle or chopped nuts. This makes your Orange Clove Cookies a delightful twist to classic flavors!

What to Serve with Orange Clove Cookies

Cozy up your holiday gatherings with delightful sides that complement the fragrant and spiced goodness of these cookies.

Spiced Tea: This aromatic drink offers a warm hug of flavors, perfectly matching the spiced notes of the cookies.
Hot Chocolate: The rich, creamy chocolate pairs wonderfully, balancing the spices and adding a touch of sweetness to your festive treat.
Cranberry Compote: A tart, fruity spread that cuts through the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the warm spiced flavors of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or ricotta add a creamy texture that elevates the sweet and spicy cookie experience to new heights.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream melting over a warm cookie creates a heavenly combination that’s hard to resist.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the seasonal flavors with a pumpkin latte, harmonizing with the cozy spices found in your Orange Clove Cookies.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a festive spread that your friends and family will love!

Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of oranges should I use for Orange Clove Cookies?
Absolutely! Fresh, juicy oranges are ideal for this recipe. Look for firm oranges with bright skin; avoid those with dark spots or blemishes. The zest from these oranges will provide the most vibrant flavor, enhancing your cookies beautifully.

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Orange Clove Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay soft and delicious, perfect for on-the-go snacking or sharing with friends!

Can I freeze Orange Clove Cookies?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight from the freezer into a preheated oven, adding an additional minute or two to the baking time.

What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your Orange Clove Cookies come out dry, it might be due to overmixing or too much flour. To prevent this, ensure you measure flour by the spoon and leveling method. If they do dry out, you can dunk them briefly in warm milk, or keep a glass of milk on hand to drizzle over while enjoying!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For dairy-free, you can use margarine instead of butter. Always check all ingredients for potential allergens before baking, and consider using flax eggs as a substitute for those with egg allergies.

Can I customize the spices in these cookies?
Very! The wonderful thing about Orange Clove Cookies is their adaptability. You can experiment with spices to suit your taste—consider adding nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist. Just be cautious with quantities to maintain the balanced flavor profile these cookies are known for!