The smell of warm spices wafting through the air transports me back to cozy kitchen gatherings, where laughter mingles with the scent of freshly baked treats. Today, I’m excited to share my love for these Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves—an irresistible Christmas cookie that embodies the spirit of the season. Not only are they easy to make, but their vibrant citrusy flavor combined with cozy spices makes them a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Perfect for gifting or sharing at festive gatherings, these cookies will have your friends and family clamoring for more. So, are you ready to create some sweet memories this holiday season? Let’s dive into this fun and flavorful recipe!
Why are these cookies a holiday favorite?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of citrus from fresh orange zest and the warmth of cinnamon and cloves creates an unforgettable taste that truly embodies the spirit of the season.
Simple Preparation: Even for novice bakers, the recipe is straightforward, allowing anyone to whip up these festive delights without stress.
Perfect for Gifting: These glazed cookies make an impressive homemade gift that’s sure to bring joy, making them an ideal addition to your holiday treats.
Versatile Options: Trim the sweetness or swap spices to make them your own; they’ll fit perfectly into any holiday tradition.
Enchanting Aroma: While baking, your kitchen will fill with a cozy scent that evokes cherished holiday memories.
Baking these cookies is a joyful way to celebrate the season; also check out our tips for make-ahead options and how to store them for freshness.
Christmas Cookie Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these delectable glazed orange cookies.
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; without it, you’ll miss that delightful cookie texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides the sweetness; substituting may alter the cookie’s profile.
- Dutch-Processed Cocoa – Adds a rich chocolatey flavor; you can substitute with unsweetened cocoa if needed.
- Ground Cinnamon – Offers warm, comforting spice; fresh ground enhances the flavor even more.
- Ground Cloves – A must for that distinctive holiday flavor; best used as is for authenticity.
- Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps your cookies rise nicely; baking soda can be an alternative.
- Eggs – They provide binding and richness; for a vegan option, flax eggs work wonderfully.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Keeps the cookies moist; canola oil is a good neutral substitute.
- Whole Milk – Ensures moisture; feel free to use almond or any non-dairy plant milk instead.
- Zest of Oranges – Brightens the flavor; fresh is best for that signature citrusy zing.
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Creates a sweet and smooth glaze; powdered erythritol can be used, but texture may vary.
- Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice – Gives the glaze a fresh flavor; bottled juice works in a pinch but lacks vibrancy.
- Cointreau/Grand Marnier (optional) – Adds a beautiful depth to the glaze; skip if you prefer a non-alcoholic version or replace with more orange juice.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and baking powder until well combined. Create a well in the center and add two eggs, extra virgin olive oil, whole milk, and freshly grated orange zest. Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead gently until combined. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take a quarter of the dough and roll it into a rope about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the rope into diamond-shaped pieces, each approximately 1.5 inches long. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart, and bake for 9-11 minutes until they feel dry to the touch. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5-7 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Glaze the Cookies
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by sifting confectioners’ sugar into a bowl. Add enough fresh orange juice to create a smooth, pourable consistency and mix well. If using, stir in a splash of Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Once the cookies have cooled, dip each one into the glaze until fully coated, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed cookies on the wire rack to let the glaze set.
Step 4: Allow to Dry
To ensure the glaze hardens properly, let the cookies sit at room temperature for at least 12 hours. This drying period prevents the glaze from running off the cookies and allows each bite to be sweet and soft with a delightful, glossy finish. After the glaze has set, enjoy your Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves as part of your holiday festivities!
Expert Tips for Glazed Orange Cookies
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Proper Cooling: Ensure the cookies are completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and becoming runny.
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Ingredient Preparation: Use room temperature eggs and milk to mix the dough easily, ensuring a light and fluffy texture for your Christmas cookie.
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Watch the Baking Time: Check the cookies a minute early; if they are still soft and not dry to the touch, add extra time but avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
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Glaze Thickness: Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more juice or sugar. Thicker glaze won’t drip off, while a thinner one will create a more delicate coating.
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Overnight Drying: Patience is key—allow the cookies to dry for at least 12 hours to achieve the perfect finish. This helps the glaze set and enhances flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. After that, simply roll, cut, and bake the cookies as usual. For even more convenience, shape the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed bag; they can be baked directly from frozen for up to 3 days later, adding just a minute or two to the bake time. Just remember to allow the glaze to set for approximately 12 hours before enjoying these delicious Christmas cookies!
Christmas Cookie Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity on these cookies and make them truly yours!
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Citrus Swap: Substitute orange zest with lemon or lime for a fresh twist.
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Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The warmth of spices pairs beautifully with nutty flavors, enhancing the overall texture.
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Chocolate Change: Switch Dutch-processed cocoa with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamy version. A white chocolate glaze can add an elegant touch too.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate dietary needs while keeping the cookie tasty and delightful.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk, ensuring the cookies remain soft and scrumptious. These options are perfect for lactose-sensitive friends.
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Spice Roulette: Experiment with spices; try adding a touch of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper holiday flavor profile. It introduces new dimensions, creating an aromatic delight.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper to the glaze for an unexpected kick. Just a hint balances the sweetness and introduces a fun surprise!
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Liquid Gold: Incorporate maple syrup in place of some sugar for a syrupy sweetness that complements the spices beautifully; it adds rich undertones perfect for festive gatherings.
As you settle into the joy of baking, be sure to check out our guide on make-ahead options to save time during those busy holidays!
Storage Tips for Christmas Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness, ensuring cookies remain soft and flavorful.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Glazed Orange Cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, wrap tightly, and transfer to a freezer-safe container.
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Glazing Tip: To protect the glaze during freezing, consider freezing the cookies unglazed. Glaze them once thawed for the best results and to preserve their glossy finish.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature. If they’re a bit soft, a quick 5-minute warm-up in a 350°F oven can revive their delightful texture.
What to Serve with Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves
Indulging in these vibrant cookies is more enjoyable when paired with the perfect accompaniments, elevating your festive experience.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A creamy mug of hot chocolate beautifully contrasts the zesty cookies, creating a delightful warming treat for chilly evenings.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Citrus and berries can lighten the dessert table with freshness, while complementing the flavors of orange and spice.
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Spiced Winter Tea: Warm spices in a cozy tea enhance the cookie’s flavor, turning your snack time into a comforting moment of bliss.
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Gingerbread Cups: Pairing with these soft, spiced cups adds a festive variety and texture, perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings.
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Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of cinnamon ice cream adds a chilly, creamy element that pairs beautifully with the warm citrus flavors.
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Nutty Biscotti: The crunch of nutty biscotti offers a contrasting texture and richness, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.
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Eggnog: This classic holiday drink enhances the festive vibe, blending its creamy undertones with the sharp citrus of the cookies.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, balances the sweetness while introducing savory notes that round out your spread.
Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe oranges for zesting?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that are vibrant in color and feel firm to the touch. A little give when you press them gently indicates juiciness. Ideally, choose oranges with a smooth skin, as they tend to contain more zest and flavor.
How should I store the Glazed Orange Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a particularly humid area, consider placing a piece of bread in the container to help retain moisture and prevent them from getting too soft.
Can I freeze these glazed cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your Glazed Orange Cookies for up to 3 months! To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and transfer them to a freezer-safe container. If you prefer, freeze them unglazed and add the glaze after thawing for a fresher look.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies run too much, it could be due to warm dough or not enough flour. Make sure to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, and check that you’re measuring ingredients accurately. Flour can compact as you scoop, leading to less than ideal dough consistency. A quick fix is to add a tablespoon more of flour to your dough if it’s too sticky.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re baking for someone with nut allergies, using almond milk or nut oils would not be advisable. Always double-check labels on ingredients like confectioners’ sugar, as some brands may process in facilities that handle nuts. For vegan options, flax eggs are a great substitute, and ensure the chocolate or glaze ingredients align with dietary needs.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking. This prep method can help save time on busy holiday baking days!
Irresistible Glazed Orange Christmas Cookies You Must Try
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and baking powder until well combined.
- Create a well in the center and add two eggs, extra virgin olive oil, whole milk, and freshly grated orange zest. Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead gently until combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Take a quarter of the dough and roll it into a rope about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Cut the rope into diamond-shaped pieces, each approximately 1.5 inches long.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart, and bake for 9-11 minutes until they feel dry to the touch.
- Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5-7 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by sifting confectioners’ sugar into a bowl.
- Add enough fresh orange juice to create a smooth, pourable consistency and mix well. If using, stir in a splash of Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
- Once the cookies have cooled, dip each one into the glaze until fully coated, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Place the glazed cookies on the wire rack to let the glaze set.
- To ensure the glaze hardens properly, let the cookies sit at room temperature for at least 12 hours.
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