If you’re searching for a cozy treat that balances a warm spice with bright citrus, this Orange Clove Cookies Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine biting into a soft, fragrant cookie where the comforting aroma of cloves mingles perfectly with the zesty burst of fresh orange. These cookies are not only easy to make but also have that delightful chewy texture and just the right amount of sweetness to keep you reaching for more. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, these cookies bring a little sunshine and spice to every moment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Orange Clove Cookies Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role — from the spices that provide warmth to the orange zest and juice that give a fresh, vibrant note. Together, they create a harmony of flavors that makes these cookies truly special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives your cookies structure and body.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a lightness and a slight lift with the leavening.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves: Brings a warm, aromatic depth that defines the cookie’s cozy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a sweet-spicy note perfectly paired with clove and orange.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender texture to the cookies.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweeps in just the right amount of sweetness for a delicious bite.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and lends moisture.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Infuses bright, citrusy oils that pop with freshness.
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice: Adds moistness and a tangy hint that lifts the whole cookie.
How to Make Orange Clove Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your dough is mixed. Next, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cloves, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl. This blend will form the spicy and balanced backbone of your cookies.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mix is light and fluffy. This process is key to achieving the deliciously tender texture your Orange Clove Cookies will be known for.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Orange
Beat in the egg, followed by the orange zest and fresh orange juice to the butter and sugar mixture. This combination brings moisture, richness, and that irresistible, fresh citrus aroma to the dough.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until the cookie dough just comes together without overmixing — this ensures a tender bite every time.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly to give your cookies room to spread. Slide the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely until the edges turn a lovely golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack. Cooling lets them set perfectly, with edges crisp and centers soft — the ideal texture for your Orange Clove Cookies Recipe.
How to Serve Orange Clove Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are fantastic on their own, sprinkling a little powdered sugar or a zest of orange on top adds a lovely visual pop and an extra hint of sweetness that guests will adore. For a holiday touch, a few finely chopped candied orange peel pieces can make them even more festive.
Side Dishes
Orange Clove Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or spiced coffee — the kind of combo that feels like a cozy hug. For a more indulgent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream; the contrast of warm spices and cold cream is simply divine.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking a few cookies tied with rustic twine for a charming gift, or arrange them on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary for visual appeal. These little touches make your Orange Clove Cookies Recipe come alive as a centerpiece, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep these delightful cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and flavorful for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing ahead for a week’s worth of treats.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Orange Clove Cookies Recipe fresh for longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked feel, warm your cookies in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. This revives their soft texture and releases that wonderful orange and clove aroma anew.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground cloves with another spice?
If you don’t have ground cloves, you can try using ground nutmeg or ground allspice, but keep in mind this will change the flavor profile slightly as cloves have a distinct warm, sweet-spicy character that’s quite unique.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice and zest?
Fresh orange juice and zest provide the brightest and most authentic citrus flavor. Bottled juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste and aroma for this Orange Clove Cookies Recipe.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a chicken egg. The flavor will still be deliciously close!
What is the texture of these cookies?
These cookies are tender and slightly chewy with crisp edges, thanks to the balance of leavening agents and butter. The citrus and spice make each bite complex and comforting.
How long do the cookies last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. You can always freeze them to prolong their life and enjoy them later.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way warm cloves and fresh orange combine in this Orange Clove Cookies Recipe. It’s the kind of treat that feels personal and heartwarming every time you bake it. I can’t wait for you to try making these cookies yourself—they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect for sharing and savoring whenever a little joy is needed.
Print
Orange Clove Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Orange Clove Cookies, a perfect blend of warm spices and bright citrus flavor. Soft and fragrant with ground cloves, cinnamon, and fresh orange zest, these cookies offer a unique twist on the classic spiced cookie, ideal for holiday baking or anytime you crave a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all the spices and leavening agents.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Flavors: Beat in the large egg, orange zest, and fresh orange juice into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly to fully incorporate these flavorful ingredients.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, stirring continuously until a soft cookie dough forms without overmixing.
- Shape Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly to allow room for spreading during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown color indicating they are done.
- Cool Cookies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps them set and develop texture.
Notes
- For a stronger orange flavor, add an extra teaspoon of orange zest.
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to one month; thaw before serving.
- Use fresh orange juice for the best aroma and taste; bottled juice may alter the flavor.
