As the scent of freshly baked cookies fills the kitchen, it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. What if I told you that creating the perfect batch of cookies can be as simple as mixing a few pantry staples with a zesty twist? Enter my beloved Orange Clove Cookies—a delightful harmony of citrus and spice that lifts your sweets game without hours in the kitchen.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy afternoon, searching for a way to bring a little brightness to my usual cookie roster. The addition of orange zest and juice transforms these treats into something truly special, adding freshness that dances across the palate, while the cloves and cinnamon provide a comforting warmth. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies promise to impress with minimal effort.
Join me in whipping up a batch that’s not just delicious but might just become your new favorite. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that brings the spirit of home baking to life!
Why You'll Love This Orange Clove Cookies
- These Orange Clove Cookies offer a perfect blend of ease and flavor, making them a go-to treat for any occasion.
- With just a few simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can whip up a delicious batch in under 30 minutes.
- The delightful combination of citrus and spice not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes everyone feel at home.
- Their beautiful golden edges and charming appearance make them perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet personal treat.
Orange Clove Cookies Ingredients
• Ready to create these delightful treats? Here’s what you need to get started!
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – a staple for creating that perfect texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cookies rise just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – adds a lovely lift to your Orange Clove Cookies.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves – infuses your cookies with a warm, festive flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – enhances the cozy spice profile!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – elevates the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – for a rich, delightful base.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens your cookies beautifully.
- 1 large egg – binds all the ingredients together.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest – adds a refreshing zing to every cookie.
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice – keeps the dough moist and flavorful!
How to Make Orange Clove Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s perfectly hot for baking. This initial step is crucial for those golden edges you’ll love!
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Combine the dry ingredients: In a bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well blended. This will give your cookies the perfect flavor base.
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Cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar in another bowl until light and fluffy. This sunny mixture creates that delightful texture that we all crave in cookies!
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Stir in 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon orange zest, and 1/4 cup fresh orange juice to the butter mixture. Blend these ingredients until smooth and combined, letting that bright citrus aroma fill your kitchen.
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Mix gradually, adding the dry ingredients to the wet ones, stirring until just combined. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough comes together, looking slightly sticky but cohesive.
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Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them enough space to spread. Aim for about 2 inches apart to allow for that lovely expansion!
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown, filling your home with an irresistible scent. A little patience goes a long way here!
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Cool the cookies on a wire rack after removing them from the oven. This step lets them set perfectly, making them delightful to enjoy once slightly cooled.
Optional: Dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Orange Clove Cookies?
There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming scents of citrus and spice filling your home, especially when paired with delightful sides that enhance the experience.
- Nutty Granola: Adds a delightful crunch and pairs wonderfully with the soft, chewy texture of cookies, creating a balanced treat.
- Hot Cocoa: A cozy beverage to warm your spirits; the rich chocolate perfectly complements the light citrus flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla on the side creates a delicious contrast, melting into the warm cookie for pure bliss.
- Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits offer a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite feel lighter and invigorating.
- Cheese Platter: Introducing mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese provides a beautiful savory note that harmonizes with the sweet and spicy profile.
- Ginger Tea: This herbal drink echoes the warm spices in the cookies, enhancing the overall cozy experience of savoring your treats.
- Honey Drizzle: A simple touch of honey over the warm cookies adds an exquisite sweetness that resonates beautifully with the orange and cloves.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai elevate your cookie experience, inviting you to unwind on a chilly day.
- Bake Sale Box: Package them up with mini treats for friends; sharing the joy of these cookies makes every occasion a little brighter together.
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Clove Cookies are a wonderful choice for those looking to make their holiday baking easier! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap (this helps prevent drying out). For even more convenience, you can shape the dough into balls and freeze them. Just store the dough balls in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, place the chilled dough on a baking sheet and bake directly from the fridge for 12-14 minutes—allow a minute or two more if baking from frozen. This way, you’ll have freshly-baked cookies without the last-minute hassle!
How to Store and Freeze Orange Clove Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Orange Clove Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you need them to last longer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure they’re wrapped well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight and reheat briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their delightful freshness.
Orange Clove Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make these cookies truly your own with some delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without losing flavor.
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Vegan: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan butter for a plant-based twist!
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Nutty Surprise: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor.
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Citrus Twist: Mix in zests from lemon or grapefruit for a refreshing twist that’ll brighten up the original recipe.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ginger for a little heat that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Dried Fruit: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins into the dough for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
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Chocolate Lovers: Toss in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to create a rich and indulgent take on these cookies.
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Frosted Delight: Drizzle with a simple icing made of powdered sugar and orange juice for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation flair.
Explore these variations and discover a new favorite twist on your Orange Clove Cookies!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Orange Clove Cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar, which contributes to a light texture.
- Remember not to overmix your dough after adding the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
- For a more intense flavor, consider using fresh ground cloves and cinnamon instead of pre-ground spices.
- Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking, as ovens can vary; it’s better to take them out just as the edges turn golden for that perfect soft center.
Orange Clove Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my oranges are ripe for zesting?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that are slightly heavy for their size and have a bright, vibrant skin. If the skin has a nice sheen and is free from dark spots, it’s likely at peak ripeness for zesting. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes, as they may not have the best flavor.
How should I store my Orange Clove Cookies?
You can keep your Orange Clove Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them where they’ll stay fresh for about 1 week. Make sure they’re wrapped well to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.
Can I freeze my Orange Clove Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back their fresh-baked flair.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to softened butter that’s too warm or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is just softened, not melted, and add an extra tablespoon of flour to the dough before baking. Chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking as this can also help the cookies hold their shape better.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
While Orange Clove Cookies are delicious for us, they’re not suitable for pets, especially since they contain ingredients like sugar and spices that can upset their stomachs. Always keep baked goods out of reach of your furry friends to ensure their safety!
Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Additionally, you can swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly alternative. Just adjust the baking times slightly, as these substitutions may change the texture and moisture of the cookies.
Orange Clove Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it's perfectly hot for baking.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well blended.
- Cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar in another bowl until light and fluffy.
- Stir in 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon orange zest, and 1/4 cup fresh orange juice to the butter mixture.
- Mix gradually, adding the dry ingredients to the wet ones, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool the cookies on a wire rack after removing them from the oven.
