Name: Delicious Orange Clove Cookies Perfect for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (The foundation of these cookies, providing structure and texture.); ½ cup brown sugar (Adds moist sweetness; light brown sugar will work well.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Helps the cookies rise for that perfect texture.); 1 teaspoon ground cloves (Infuses warm flavor; consider ground allspice for a unique twist.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Enhances the aromatic profile.); ½ teaspoon ground cardamom (Provides a unique floral note.); ½ teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.); ¼ cup molasses (Adds depth and moisture; honey can replace it.); ¼ cup honey (Gives a touch of floral sweetness.); 1 tablespoon orange zest (Brightens the cookies with refreshing citrus notes.); 3 tablespoons orange juice (Adds moisture along with citrus flavor.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Sweetens and adds a lovely glaze to your cookies.)

The aromatic dance of warm spices and citrus is an undeniable signal that the holiday season is here. As the chilly breeze outside rustles through the trees, I find solace in my cozy kitchen, eagerly whipping up a batch of delightful Orange Clove Cookies. This festive treat brilliantly combines the rich notes of cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom with the bright zest of orange, creating a cookie that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Not only are these cookies a charming addition to any holiday gathering, but they also make for an easy and satisfying baking project. Plus, the enchanting aroma that fills your home while they bake? Pure magic! Are you ready to embrace some holiday cheer and dive into this cozy baking adventure? Let’s get started!

Why Are Orange Clove Cookies a Must-Bake?

Irresistible Aroma: As these cookies bake, your home fills with the enchanting scents of orange, clove, and cinnamon, creating a festive atmosphere.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples required, these cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious.
Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch and bring them to your next gathering; they’re bound to become a holiday favorite among friends and family!
Versatile Variations: Looking to mix things up? Try adding dark chocolate chunks or nuts for a delightful twist! And if you’re in the mood for other seasonal treats, check out our Cranberry Orange Bundt for a festive flavor burst.
Wholesome Goodness: These cookies incorporate spices with antioxidant properties, making them a tasty yet relatively healthy indulgence during the festive season.

Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

All-purpose flour – The foundation of these cookies, providing structure and texture.
Brown sugar – Adds moist sweetness; light brown sugar will work well, too.
Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise for that perfect texture; it’s best not to substitute this.
Ground cloves – Infuses warm flavor; consider ground allspice for a unique twist!
Ground cinnamon – Enhances the aromatic profile; pumpkin pie spice makes a delightful alternative.
Ground cardamom – Provides a unique floral note; ground ginger can be a nice substitution here.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; there’s no substitute needed.

For the Sweetness

Molasses – Adds depth and moisture; honey can replace it but will slightly change the flavor.
Honey – Gives a touch of floral sweetness; maple syrup can also work as a substitute.

For the Zesty Flavor

Orange zest – Brightens the cookies with refreshing citrus notes; lemon zest provides a different yet pleasant flavor.
Orange juice – Adds moisture along with citrus flavor; use lemon juice for more tartness if desired.

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar – Sweetens and adds a lovely glaze to your cookies; confectioners’ sugar is a suitable alternative, or omit for less sweetness.

With these Orange Clove Cookies ingredients in hand, you’re all set for a baking adventure that will fill your home with holiday cheer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Clove Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of molasses, and ¼ cup of honey until smooth and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is light in color and creamy in texture. This step is crucial as it forms the foundation of your Orange Clove Cookies’ delightful flavor and moisture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Continue whisking until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. This mixture of dry ingredients will bring warmth and spice to your Orange Clove Cookies, enhancing their festive appeal.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually blend the dry mixture into the creamed wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender; the dough should be slightly sticky but well incorporated. Then, fold in the zest from one orange and 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice to infuse that bright citrus flavor, making sure every bit of flavor is well-distributed.

Step 4: Shape Cookies
Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of the dough, then roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place these cookie dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. This shaping step is vital as it determines the final size and texture of your Orange Clove Cookies, ensuring they bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. You’ll want to keep a close eye during the last few minutes, as they can go from perfect to overbaked quickly. Once baked, the cookies will puff slightly and will firm up as they cool, creating that delightful soft texture.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze
After removing the baked Orange Clove Cookies from the oven, let them cool on a wire rack for about 5-10 minutes. While they cool, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of orange juice until smooth and glossy. Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top, adding a sweet finishing touch that enhances their festive flair.

Storage Tips for Orange Clove Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Orange Clove Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them soft and flavorful.

Refrigerator: If you live in a warm environment, consider refrigerating the cookies in a sealed container for about 2 weeks. Just remember to let them sit out for a few minutes before enjoying!

Freezer: Freeze cookies for extended storage by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Orange Clove Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps and then tightly wrapping the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in even tastier cookies. You can also scoop and shape the dough balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just preheat your oven, place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet, and increase the baking time by a couple of minutes. This approach saves time and ensures you’ll have delicious, aromatic Orange Clove Cookies ready whenever you want!

Tips for the Best Orange Clove Cookies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature butter and sugars cream better, ensuring your cookies are light and fluffy.
Don’t Overmix Dough: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to prevent tough cookies; a little flour remaining is fine.
Watch Baking Time: Check your cookies at the 10-minute mark; they should be lightly golden at the edges and soft in the center.
Chill for Better Texture: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
Experiment with Spice: Feel free to adjust the spices if you prefer a stronger or milder flavor in your Orange Clove Cookies.

What to Serve with Orange Clove Cookies

Enjoy these delightful cookies alongside a warm cup of something special for the ultimate cozy experience.

Spiced Chai Latte: The rich spices in this beverage echo the flavor profile of the cookies, enhancing their warmth and aroma.
Creamy Hot Cocoa: This sweet, velvety drink pairs perfectly with the cookies’ textures and provides a delightful contrast to their spiced flavor.
Citrus Fruit Salad: Fresh oranges and grapefruits add a zingy brightness that complements the citrus zest in the cookies, refreshing your palate.
Gingery Tea: The light spiciness of ginger tea contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, making for a well-rounded pairing.
Cheese Platter: Soft brie or a sharp cheddar brings savory richness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies for a delightful snack experience.
Buttery Shortbread: These two treats together create a cookie platter that features contrasting flavors and textures—sweet and spiced meets rich and buttery.
Mulled Wine: The warm, spiced notes of this drink mirror the cookies’ aromas, making for an inviting holiday combination.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight adds a cool element, perfectly complementing the warmth of the spiced cookies.
Roasted Nuts: Crunchy and slightly salty, roasted nuts provide a satisfying texture contrast and enhance the overall festive feel.

Orange Clove Cookies Variations & Substitutions

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

Chocolate Chip Additions: Fold in dark chocolate chunks for a rich, decadent flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Nut Options: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor. They enhance the cookie’s texture and make each bite more satisfying.
Vegan Version: Swap honey with maple syrup and replace the egg with flaxseed meal for a plant-based treat that everyone can enjoy.
Spice Exchange: If you’re looking for a different spice profile, replace ground cloves with an equal amount of ground allspice or nutmeg for a warm twist.
Citrus Swap: For a zesty variation, try using lemon zest and juice instead of orange. This will give your cookies a refreshing tartness that’s still festive!
Dried Fruit Delight: Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture and extra sweetness. This adds a vibrant splash of color and flavor!
Frosting Variants: Instead of a simple orange glaze, experiment with a cream cheese frosting for a richer, tangy character that elevates the cookies to a whole new level. Perfect for special occasions!

For more seasonal treats, you might also love our Cranberry Orange Bundt and Mandarin Orange Sorbet for bright flavors that celebrate the season.

Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs

How can I choose ripe oranges for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that feel heavy for their size and have a smooth, firm skin. Avoid those with dark spots or soft spots. The zest from a fresh, ripe orange will truly elevate the flavor of your Orange Clove Cookies!

How should I store my cookies for optimal freshness?
To keep your Orange Clove Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for about 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Orange Clove Cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Orange Clove Cookies! Start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing tightly. This method prevents them from sticking together and allows for easy access whenever you’re ready for a treat!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough is too sticky, it could be due to humidity or measuring errors. Simply add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. Remember, a little practice makes perfect; don’t stress it!

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The base ingredients of these Orange Clove Cookies don’t contain nuts, making them a great option for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check all labels of any additives or ingredients like chocolate chips, just to be safe. Enjoy baking!

Can I use lemon juice instead of orange juice in the recipe?
Very! If you want a slightly different flavor profile, feel free to substitute lemon juice for orange juice. However, keep in mind that this will give your cookies a more tart flavor, so adjust the sweetness if needed. Happy baking with your Orange Clove Cookies!