Name: Orange Clove Cookies Spiced Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 170 g unsalted butter, softened; 40 g honey (2 tablespoons); 40 g fancy molasses (2 tablespoons); 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt; Zest of 1 large orange; Dehydrated orange rings, finely chopped (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger, or to taste; 0.25 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, or to taste; 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom; Pinch of ground clove; Pinch of ground allspice; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 300 g all-purpose flour (2 and 1/2 cups); 150 g icing sugar (about 1 and 1/4 cups); 30-45 ml freshly squeezed orange juice (2-3 tablespoons); 30-40 ml Cointreau (2-3 tablespoons); Pinch of ground clove for the glaze

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Introduction to Orange Clove Cookies Spiced Glaze

As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with scents of cinnamon and citrus, and there’s nothing that warms my heart quite like baking traditions. Orange Clove Cookies with a spiced glaze are a cherished recipe in my home. They’re not only delightful but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for busy moms or professionals juggling hectic schedules. Imagine surprising your loved ones with these aromatic treats that evoke cozy gatherings and joyful moments. Trust me; your kitchen will transform into a festive haven with these delicious delights!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Clove Cookies Spiced Glaze

These Orange Clove Cookies with a spiced glaze are a dream come true for anyone short on time yet craving something special. They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute baking. The rich flavors of orange and clove dance on your palate, brightening your day. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults—everyone smiles with a cookie in hand, and that’s the magic of baking!

Ingredients for Orange Clove Cookies Spiced Glaze

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating these tempting Orange Clove Cookies with a spiced glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: For a rich, creamy base. It gives the cookies a delightful texture.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor, balancing out the spices nicely.
Fancy molasses: Infuses depth and richness, while enhancing that warm holiday vibe.
Fine sea salt: A pinch brings all the flavors to life, making sweet notes pop.
Zest of a large orange: This is where the bright citrus flavor shines, elevating the cookie experience.
Dehydrated orange rings (optional): For extra texture and an intensified orange flavor if you choose to use them.
Ground spices: Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, clove, and allspice create a warm spice blend that sings of comfort.
Pure vanilla extract: This classic flavor anchors the sweetness beautifully.
All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, ensuring it holds together yet remains tender.
Icing sugar: For making that irresistible spiced glaze; it contributes to the cookie’s perfect sweetness.
Freshly squeezed orange juice: Brightens the glaze while enhancing that citrus zing!
Cointreau (or additional orange juice): The optional splash adds sophistication; if you want a non-alcoholic version, stick to juice.
Pinch of ground clove for the glaze: A little goes a long way to amplify the cookie’s warm spice notes.

You’ll find exact measurements at the bottom of the article for ease of printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Orange Clove Cookies Spiced Glaze

Step 1: Creaming the Base

Start by adding your softened unsalted butter, honey, and fancy molasses into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in a pinch of fine sea salt. Using a mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture for about a minute. The goal is to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture that invites those warm spices in. This creamy base is the soul of your Orange Clove Cookies with a spiced glaze, and it holds everything together beautifully!

Step 2: Adding the Aromatic Spices

Once your base is ready, it’s time to infuse it with those mouthwatering spices. Add in ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, clove, and that zesty orange peel. The moment these familiar scents waft through your kitchen, you’ll feel the warmth of the holidays! Mix these fragrant ingredients for about ten seconds, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. This is where the magic truly begins!

Step 3: Forming the Dough

Now comes the exciting part—creating the dough! Gradually add all-purpose flour to your spiced mixture. Start with a whisk to lightly blend, then switch to a spoon. You’re aiming for a soft, slightly sticky dough. If it’s too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour; if too dry, a few drops of water or milk can help! This dough should be cohesive, so keep mixing until everything is well incorporated. Think of it like a cozy hug, wrapping the spices and butter together.

Step 4: Chilling the Dough

Once your dough is ready, cover it and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is essential! It helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle when you’re ready to shape those adorable cookies. Plus, it enhances the flavors!

Step 5: Shaping the Cookies

After chilling, it’s cookie shaping time! Take the dough out and dust your hands, dough balls, and cookie stamp with flour. For a traditional approach, use teaspoon-sized dough balls and stamp them down, or roll out the dough and use cookie cutters for festive shapes. Let your creativity shine here—snowflakes or stars will make delightful decorations on your holiday table!

Step 6: Baking the Cookies

Next, preheat your oven to 175°C (about 350°F). Arrange your shaped cookies on lined baking trays. Bake for about 14 minutes, or until the edges are just golden. This is where the magic truly happens. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want to overbake since these cookies will return to the oven after glazing!

Step 7: Making the Glaze

While your cookies are first taking a bath in the oven, it’s the perfect time to whip up the spiced glaze. In a bowl, combine icing sugar, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice, and 2 tablespoons of Cointreau—or just stick to juice for a non-alcoholic twist. Whisk until you’ve got a thick yet pourable glaze. Adjust the consistency with more liquid if needed. The glaze acts like a touch of holiday magic that drizzles over your cookies!

Step 8: Glazing and Finishing Touches

Once the cookies are out of the oven and slightly cooled, dip each cookie into the prepared glaze. Alternatively, you can pour the glaze over each cookie while they’re still on the sheet. This creates a beautiful, glossy finish! Return them to the oven for about 2 minutes to help set the glaze, then turn off the heat and let them rest inside for an additional minute. Finally, transfer your glazed creations to a wire rack to cool completely. What a sight they are!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming.
Be precise with your spice measurements; they truly elevate the flavor!
If you’re using cookie cutters, flour your surface to prevent sticking.
Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different.
Let the cookies cool completely before storing them to maintain freshness.
Experiment with the glaze by adding citrus zest or extra spices for a personal touch!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential; a stand mixer can make things easier.
Whisk: Great for combining ingredients; a fork works too in a pinch.
Spoon: For mixing the dough; any sturdy spoon will do.
Cookie stamp or cookie cutters: Fun options for shaping; feel free to get creative!
Baking sheets: Use lined trays for easy cleanup; silicone baking mats are a fantastic alternative.
Wire rack: For cooling; a plate works if you don’t have one.

Variations of Orange Clove Cookies Spiced Glaze

Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Vegan twist: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of unsalted butter and swap honey for maple syrup.
Add chopped nuts: Incorporate pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Dried fruits: Mix in dried cranberries or currants for added sweetness and a festive touch.
Spice variations: Experiment with different spice blends, such as pumpkin pie spice or adding a touch of cayenne for heat.
Chocolate lovers: Fold in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the glazed cookies for a decadent treat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Orange Clove Cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Presentation tip: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter, garnished with fresh rosemary or cranberries for a pop of color.
For gatherings, serve alongside a charcuterie board to balance sweet and savory flavors.

FAQs about Orange Clove Cookies Spiced Glaze

Can I freeze the Orange Clove Cookies?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze wonderfully. Make sure to place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can retain their flavor for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before glazing.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?

If you want a less sweet glaze, simply decrease the icing sugar and add more orange juice or Cointreau. This will give you a lovely glaze while keeping it balanced. Experiment until you reach your desired sweetness!

What can I use instead of Cointreau in the glaze?

You can use more orange juice for a non-alcoholic version! Alternatively, a splash of orange extract will also work, giving you that distinct citrus flavor with no alcohol.

How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?

Look for the edges to turn a beautiful golden brown. The center may look slightly soft; that’s okay! They’ll firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking to maintain that tender texture!

What’s the best way to store these cookies?

Store your Orange Clove Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing, as mentioned earlier!

Final Thoughts

Baking Orange Clove Cookies with a spiced glaze brings so much joy and warmth to my kitchen. Each bite is a reminder of the love and tradition that fill our homes during the festive season. The aromas of citrus and spices wafting through the air create an atmosphere of togetherness, making them not just cookies, but cherished memories in the making. Whether you share them with family or keep them for yourself, these cookies are sure to sweeten up your day and wrap you in a cozy hug. Dive into this recipe, and let the holiday magic unfold!