Name: Irresistible Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Can swap with gluten-free flour); 1 cup White granulated sugar (Reduce for less sweetness); 1/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa (Optional for lighter cookie); 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (Essential holiday warmth); 1/4 teaspoon Ground cloves (Use fresh for best flavor); 1 teaspoon Baking powder (Check freshness for best results); 2 Large eggs (Can use flaxseed or chia seeds for vegan option); 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil); 1/4 cup Whole milk (Dairy or almond milk can substitute); 1 cup Confectioners' (powdered) sugar (Organic sugar is a great choice); 1/4 cup Fresh squeezed orange juice (Lemon juice is an alternative); 2 tablespoons Cointreau or Grand Marnier (Optional for glaze flavor); 1 cup Confectioners' sugar (Adjust for desired thickness); 2 tablespoons Fresh squeezed orange juice (Substitute with lemon juice if needed); 2 tablespoons Cointreau or Grand Marnier (Optional or add extra juice)

As I opened my spice cabinet, the fragrant warmth of cinnamon and cloves enveloped me like a nostalgic hug. These seasonal spices have a unique ability to transform everyday moments into cherished holiday traditions. That’s why I can’t resist sharing my favorite recipe for Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves. Perfect for bustling cookie swaps, these delightful treats strike a wonderful balance between sweet and subtly spiced, making them an easy crowd-pleaser. The best part? They’re quick to whip up and can even cater to gluten-free friends with a simple swap! Whether you’re savoring them with a cup of hot cocoa or gifting them to loved ones, I promise these cookies will spread joy and warmth. So, are you ready to create some festive magic in your kitchen?

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with the vibrant essence of orange, perfectly complemented by the warm notes of cinnamon and cloves.
Effortless Baking: This recipe is designed for busy bakers, taking only a short time to prepare and ensuring delicious results with minimal effort.
Festive Appeal: Ideal for holiday gatherings, these cookies will impress guests and are perfect for cookie swaps.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe for gluten-free options or swap in different spices and zests to suit your taste!
Gift-Ready: Pack them up for loved ones; these cookies make thoughtful gifts that spread warmth and cheer, especially alongside a cup of hot cocoa!
Try pairing them with our Cinnamon Roll French for a delightful seasonal experience!

Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Create a soft texture; can swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
White granulated sugar – Adds traditional sweetness; reduce for a less sugary bite if desired.
Dutch-processed cocoa – Provides depth of flavor; optional for a lighter-colored cookie.
Ground cinnamon – Essential holiday warmth; no substitute needed for this classic spice.
Ground cloves – Enhances aroma and warmth; use fresh for the best flavor, though pre-ground works in a pinch.
Baking powder – Helps the cookies rise; check freshness for best results.
Large eggs – Binds the ingredients together; use flaxseed or chia seeds for a vegan option.
Extra virgin olive oil – Contributes moisture and richness; can be substituted with vegetable oil.
Whole milk – Adds moisture; dairy or almond milk can serve as substitutes.
Zest of 2 medium oranges – Infuses citrus flavor; essential for that signature taste.
Confectioners’ (powdered) sugar – Sweetens the glaze; organic sugar is a great natural choice.
Fresh squeezed orange juice – Provides flavor and moisture for the glaze; lemon juice is a tangy alternative.
Cointreau or Grand Marnier (optional) – Ups the flavor in the glaze; can be swapped with more orange juice if omitted.

For the Glaze

Confectioners’ sugar – Key for sweetness; adjust the quantity based on desired glaze thickness.
Fresh squeezed orange juice – Vital for flavor and glaze consistency; substitute with lemon juice for a different kick.
Cointreau or Grand Marnier (optional) – Enhances the glaze flavor; entirely optional, or add extra juice instead.

These delightful Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves are ready to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa (if using), ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and baking powder until well combined. Create a well in the center and add the eggs, olive oil, milk, and orange zest. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead gently until smooth, about 3-5 minutes. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour your work surface, then take pieces of the rested dough and roll them into long ropes, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1.5-inch diamond shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about an inch apart. This will allow for even baking and the cookies’ slight rising.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Once your oven is preheated, bake the shaped cookies for 9-11 minutes. Look for them to be dry to the touch and slightly golden around the edges. Be cautious not to overbake, as you want the cookies soft on the inside yet firm on the outside. When done, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, which enhances their texture.

Step 4: Glaze the Cookies
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the confectioners’ sugar, fresh orange juice, and Cointreau (if using) in a small bowl. Ensure you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add more orange juice; if too thin, add more powdered sugar. This sweet glaze will perfectly complement your Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves.

Step 5: Coat the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, individually dip or drizzle the glaze over each cookie, allowing extra glaze to drip off. Place the glazed cookies back on the wire rack so that the glaze can set. Repeat this process for all cookies, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sweet citrus glaze, adding a festive touch.

Step 6: Allow the Glaze to Harden
Let the glazed cookies sit at room temperature for at least 12 hours to allow the glaze to harden fully. This crucial step ensures that the cookies maintain their beautiful appearance and create a delightful eating experience. Patience will lead to the best outcome for your Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves!

What to Serve with Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves

Indulge in the holiday spirit by pairing these delightful cookies with complements that enhance their festive flavors.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich, velvety mug of hot cocoa offers a warm, chocolatey contrast that beautifully balances the spices in the cookies. Enjoy the comforting sweetness as you dip the cookies for the ultimate experience!
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy almond or hazelnut biscotti adds a satisfying crunch and a slightly savory flavor that brings out the sweetness of the orange cookies.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serious holiday vibes are in the air with a warm glass of spiced apple cider. It’s like sipping on the essence of fall, pairing spectacularly with the citrus notes.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The freshness of a seasonal fruit salad, brimming with berries and citrus, complements the cookies’ rich flavors while adding a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
Pecan Pie Bars: Decadent and nutty, these bars provide a delightful texture and sweet flavor that enhances the holiday spirit, making dessert time a true celebration.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of cold vanilla ice cream melting over a warm cookie creates a dreamy combination of temperatures and flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Mulled Wine: Infused with spices and citrus, a glass of warm mulled wine plays perfectly with the cookies’ festive spices, enhancing the overall holiday ambiance.
Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink with hints of citrus or pomegranate can cleanse the palate and elevate your cookie experience without overpowering the flavors.

Expert Tips for Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves

Glaze Consistency: Ensure the glaze is thick enough to coat without running off. If too thin, gradually add more confectioners’ sugar for perfect coverage.
Neutral Oil: Use a mild extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil to avoid overpowering the fragrant spices in your Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves.
Resting Time: Don’t skip resting the dough for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to shape.
Baking Watch: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be firm yet soft inside. Overbaking can result in a dry texture.
Glaze Hardening: Allow ample time for the glaze to harden—at least 12 hours—to maintain their beautiful finish and delightful flavor.
Citrus Variations: Feel free to experiment with different citrus zests like lemon or lime for a refreshing twist on flavor in your cookies!

Storage Tips for Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, place the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; just let them warm to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: To extend freshness, freeze the cookies (before glazing) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then allow them to come to room temperature. Glaze them just before serving to keep that sweet touch!

Make Ahead Options

These Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For even more flexibility, shaped but unbaked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, bake the cookies directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. To maintain the quality and freshness of the cookies, keep the glazed treats stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Enjoy the delightful and festive flavors any time with minimal effort!

Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies and let your creativity shine!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.
The flavor and texture will still be beautifully maintained; everyone can enjoy these festive treats!
Coconut Oil: Swap olive oil for melted coconut oil for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the orange.
This change can impart a subtle coconut flavor, transporting you to a sunny retreat even in winter.
Nutmeg or Ginger: Experiment with ground nutmeg or ginger in place of or alongside cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
These spices add warmth and an exciting zing that can refresh the classic flavor combination.
Lemon Zest: For a brighter flavor, replace orange zest with lemon zest, which introduces a delightful tartness.
This is a refreshing approach that still offers that citrus essence while providing an exciting twist!
Cranberry or Raisin Add-Ins: Stir in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy surprise and added sweetness.
These little gems will not only enhance the flavor but also add a festive touch of color to your cookie platter!
Chili Flakes: If you enjoy a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the dough for a warming heat.
This unexpected twist will surely surprise and delight those who appreciate a little extra oomph in their treats!
Almond Milk: Swap whole milk for almond milk to reduce dairy while still keeping cookies moist and delicious.
This can cater to dairy-free friends without sacrificing flavor or texture!

Why not try these variations, and if you’re looking for other festive desserts, check out our Healthy Carrot Cookies or even indulge in some delicious Cinnamon Roll French? The possibilities are endless!

Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Recipe FAQs

What type of oranges should I use for the zest?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, vibrant oranges, preferably organic, as they tend to have more flavorful zest. Look for ones without dark spots, as that indicates they might be past their prime. Using fresh zest enhances the cookies’ flavor beautifully!

How should I store my glazed cookies?
Store your Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful. If you want them to last longer, try refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them return to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the cookies, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies effectively, bake them, let them cool completely, and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before glazing again and enjoying!

What if my glaze is too thick or too thin?
If your glaze is too thick, gradually whisk in a few drops of orange juice to reach the desired pourable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar little by little until it thickens. Finding the right balance is key to achieving that perfect glaze!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, these cookies can be modified for various dietary needs. For gluten-free alternatives, swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, if you’re looking to make them vegan, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed or chia seed egg substitutes. Just mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, and use it in place of one egg!

How do I know when the cookies are baked perfectly?
To check if your cookies are ready, they should feel dry to the touch and be slightly golden around the edges, typically taking around 9-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking; you want that soft center that melts in your mouth while maintaining some firmness on the outside!