Orange Clove Cookies (Classic Holiday Spice Cookies) Recipe

These Orange Clove Cookies (Classic Holiday Spice Cookies) Recipe are a true celebration of warm, comforting flavors that instantly evoke the cozy spirit of the holiday season. Combining the bright zest of fresh orange with the deep, aromatic spice of cloves and cinnamon, these cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. Soft yet slightly crisp edges, tender interiors, and the inviting scent filling your kitchen make this recipe an absolute favorite to share with loved ones and savor with a cup of tea or coffee. If you are looking for a timeless holiday treat that feels both festive and homey, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple pantry staples is all it takes to create these irresistible Orange Clove Cookies (Classic Holiday Spice Cookies) Recipe. Each ingredient is essential, contributing uniquely to the depth of flavor, texture, or festive aroma you’ll enjoy in every bite.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and the perfect crumb for tender cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light texture without puffing up too much.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Adds a subtle lift and helps balance the acidity in the dough.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves: Offers warm, slightly pungent spice that defines the cookie’s signature holiday character.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Another layer of cozy spice that complements the cloves beautifully.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the delicate crisp edges.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel depth for extra flavor complexity.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give the dough body.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (freshly grated): Bursts of citrus brighten the whole cookie and balance the warm spices perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A gentle background warmth that ties all the flavors together.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for optional icing): For adding a sweet, delicate glaze that makes the cookies look and taste even more festive.

How to Make Orange Clove Cookies (Classic Holiday Spice Cookies) Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking, setting the stage for perfect results.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cloves, and cinnamon. Taking the time to blend these spices evenly will distribute their warm, classic holiday flavors throughout every bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy and light. This step is key for creating a tender, slightly chewy texture that elevates the cookie experience beyond ordinary.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the orange zest and vanilla extract. The orange zest invigorates the aroma while vanilla adds a gentle sweetness that warms up the entire flavor profile.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring carefully until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can toughen cookies, so keep it gentle to maintain a tender crumb.

Step 6: Scoop and Space the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow the cookies room to spread and develop beautiful edges.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, until their edges are golden brown and the centers look set but still soft. Your kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of orange and cloves signaling that these cookies are almost ready to enjoy.

Step 8: Cool and Optional Icing

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. If you want to add an extra touch of sweetness, whisk powdered sugar with a bit of milk or water and drizzle a light icing over the cooled cookies.

How to Serve Orange Clove Cookies (Classic Holiday Spice Cookies) Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance these cookies by sprinkling a little extra orange zest or a few whole cloves on top of the icing, if used. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds a snowy, festive look that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a hot cup of spiced tea, chai latte, or even a rich hot chocolate. The warm spices in the cookies complement warm beverages perfectly, turning any snack time into a comforting, joyous moment.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies on a wooden platter decorated with fresh orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and sprigs of pine or rosemary for a rustic holiday feel. You could also package them in clear, festive bags tied with a bright ribbon as thoughtful edible gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Orange Clove Cookies (Classic Holiday Spice Cookies) Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy for up to a week. Layering with parchment paper will prevent sticking.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining their flavor and texture wonderfully.

Reheating

To revive the freshly-baked feel, warm frozen or stored cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their soft texture and enhances the aroma, perfect for enjoying at any time.

FAQs

Can I substitute orange zest with orange extract?

Yes, but orange zest gives a fresher and more vibrant citrus flavor while the extract can be stronger and sometimes artificial-tasting, so use sparingly—about ½ teaspoon—to avoid overpowering the cookies.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps maintain the right texture and keeps the cookies tender and delicious.

Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?

Yes, each leavening agent serves a purpose: baking powder provides gentle lift while baking soda reacts with the acidic brown sugar, balancing flavors and helping the dough spread just right.

What can I use instead of cloves if I don’t like the taste?

You can substitute cloves with ground nutmeg or allspice for a similarly warm and spicy note, but keep the quantity the same to maintain the cookie’s spice balance.

Can I skip the icing altogether?

Absolutely! These cookies are delicious on their own with the perfect balance of orange and spice. Icing adds sweetness and visual appeal but is not essential to enjoy the classic flavors.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Orange Clove Cookies (Classic Holiday Spice Cookies) Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm holiday hug. The harmony of zesty orange and fragrant cloves brings magic to your baking, making it an absolute delight to bake and share. I can’t wait for you to experience this classic treat that feels both timeless and fresh. Trust me, once you taste them, these cookies will be a staple of your holiday celebrations year after year!

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