Irresistible Spiced Orange Clove Cookies with Zesty Glaze

Introduction

Bright, warmly spiced cookies are the perfect bridge between cozy and celebratory baking. These orange clove cookies bring together citrus sparkle and aromatic spices for a cookie that looks as good as it tastes. They are simple enough for a weeknight bake yet special enough for a holiday tray. If you enjoy citrus baked treats, try them alongside our cranberry orange shortbread cookies for a lovely platter of flavors.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe blends pantry friendly spices with fresh orange for a bright, homey cookie that fills the kitchen with a festive scent. The dough is forgiving and easy to shape so bakers of every level can produce beautiful results. The zesty glaze adds a shiny finish and a pop of tang that keeps each bite lively. These cookies are also a great choice when you want a bake that pairs well with tea or coffee after dinner, or even a light main like our baked cod with lemon dill sauce for a full citrus themed meal. They travel well in a tin and make a charming homemade gift.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a tender crumb with a gentle chew and a crisp outer edge from a modest bake time. Ground cinnamon and ginger give warmth while clove and nutmeg introduce a subtle depth and holiday aroma. Fresh orange zest brightens the whole mix and keeps the spice profile from being heavy. The glaze finishes the cookies with a glossy tang that balances the sugar and highlights the orange notes. Each bite should feel light, warmly spiced, and refreshingly citrusy.

Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour (helps give the cookies a perfect structure.)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder (ensures the cookies rise beautifully.)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (contributes to a delightful texture.)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds a warm, comforting flavor.)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (brings a hint of spice to the mix.)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (enhances the overall aroma.)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (complements the spices for a cozy warmth.)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness of the dough.)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (creates a rich and tender cookie.)
– 1 cup granulated sugar (sweetens the cookies to perfection.)
– 1 large egg (binds the ingredients together for a seamless dough.)
– Zest of 1 orange (infuses the cookies with bright, zesty flavor.)
– 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice (enhances the orange flavor while keeping the dough moist.)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cookies.)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (provides the sweetness needed for the glaze.)
– 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (gives the glaze a tangy freshness.)
– Zest of 1 orange (makes for a lovely garnish that brightens the glaze.)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Scoop or roll dough into tablespoon sized balls and place them on the prepared sheet with space between.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or the palm of your hand for even baking.
8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are set and tops are lightly golden.
9. Cool the cookies on the sheet for five minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Whisk powdered sugar with two tablespoons of fresh orange juice until smooth and spoon over cooled cookies.
11. Sprinkle orange zest on top of the glaze and let it set before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Use room temperature butter and egg to help the dough come together with a smooth texture. Zest the orange before juicing to get every bit of aromatic oils into the dough. If the dough feels too soft to shape, chill it for ten to fifteen minutes to firm up. For a brighter glaze, add a little extra orange juice a few drops at a time until you reach the right consistency. Avoid overbaking so the centers stay tender and the edges stay just crisp.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days for best freshness. For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookie dough balls on a tray then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw dough in the refrigerator before shaping and baking. Glaze cookies just before serving if you want the freshest shine and texture.

Final Thought

These spiced orange clove cookies are a welcome mix of comfort and brightness that work for casual afternoons or special gatherings. They are easy to make ahead and always earn compliments for their aroma and balance of flavors. Keep the glaze tangy and the zest generous for the most memorable bites.

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