As I sifted through my spice cabinet, the familiar embrace of cinnamon and cloves filled the air, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings. There’s something magical about baking during the festive season, and my Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves embody that warmth perfectly. These delightful cookies not only bring a citrusy brightness to your holiday cookie platter but also make for a feel-good treat that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. With their soft, slightly chewy texture and a sweet citrus glaze, it’s hard not to smile with each bite. Plus, using olive oil gives them a healthier twist that won’t make you miss the traditional options. Ready to fill your kitchen with tantalizing scents and create unforgettable memories? Let’s dive into this irresistible holiday delight!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Nostalgic Flavors: The fusion of cinnamon and cloves brings warmth to each bite, evoking memories of holiday traditions.
Fresh Citrus Zest: Infused with orange zest and juice, these cookies offer a bright burst of flavor that’s both uplifting and festive.
Healthier Ingredient Choice: Utilizing olive oil instead of butter not only adds moisture but also injects a healthier element into your holiday baking.
Unique Texture: These cookies boast a soft, slightly chewy consistency, providing just the right amount of bite while maintaining a delicate, spiced profile.
Perfect for Gifting: Present these cookies as delightful gifts for friends and family or include them on your holiday platter alongside treats like Apple Cider Caramel or Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time, making them a time-saving option for all your holiday festivities.
Glazed Orange Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps in browning.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth; essential for that holiday flavor.
- Ground cloves – Imparts a festive, aromatic quality.
- Baking powder – A leavening agent for a light texture.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture for a tender bite.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Provides moisture and a unique flavor; can be replaced with melted coconut oil for a richer profile.
- Whole milk – Adds creaminess; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Zest of 2 medium oranges – Enhances the citrus brightness in these glazed orange cookies.
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
- Fresh squeezed orange juice – Adds brightness to the glaze; crucial for that delightful finish.
- Cointreau or Grand Marnier (optional) – Adds complexity; use extra orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of these Glazed Little Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves—they’re sure to light up your holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Little Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, cocoa, and baking powder. Stir the dry ingredients until fully mixed. Create a well in the center and add eggs, olive oil, whole milk, and the zest of 2 medium oranges. Mix gently until a rough dough forms, then knead for a couple of minutes until no dry ingredients remain. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
As your dough rests, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your delightful Glazed Little Orange Cookies. This will ensure an even bake and makes cleanup a breeze. Set the prepared baking sheet aside while you prepare the cookies for baking.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Once the dough has rested, take a portion and roll it into a log about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Gently flatten it and cut it into diamond shapes roughly 1½ inches long. Make sure to maintain enough space between each cookie on the baking sheet so they have room to expand while baking. Aim for about 12 cookies per sheet to ensure even baking.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are ready when they feel dry to the touch but still have a soft appearance. After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5-7 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which takes about an hour.
Step 5: Glaze Cookies
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by sifting confectioners’ sugar into a bowl. Gradually mix in fresh squeezed orange juice and Cointreau or Grand Marnier if using, until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Once cooled, dip each cookie into the glaze, ensuring an even coating before placing them back on the wire rack to set.
Step 6: Let Glaze Set
Allow the glazed cookies to set for at least 12 hours at room temperature. This step is crucial for developing a delightful texture and flavor. If you can resist the temptation, letting the Glazed Little Orange Cookies sit overnight will ensure the glaze fully hardens and enhances the overall experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. Before baking, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. If you prefer, you can also bake the cookies up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to glaze them, allow them to cool completely, prepare your glaze, and dip each cookie just before serving for that fresh taste. This way, your cookies remain just as delicious and festive without the last-minute stress!
Variations & Substitutions for Glazed Orange Cookies
Feel free to put your own spin on these cookies and savor new flavor experiences this holiday season!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free option.
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk instead of whole milk to create delicious, dairy-free Glazed Orange Cookies.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for an exciting texture that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
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Zesty Alternatives: Swap orange zest for lemon or lime zest for an unexpected twist that brightens your cookies in a new way.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or replace ground cloves with allspice for a more complex flavor profile that enhances the holiday spirit.
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top of the glaze, adding layers of sweetness that harmonize with the cookies’ citrus flavor.
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Festive Sprinkles: Before the glaze sets, top each cookie with colored sugar or edible glitter to make them even more festive and inviting.
For more delightful treats, why not serve these alongside some tasty Apple Fritter Cookies or a batch of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies? Each variation adds a personal touch to your holiday traditions!
What to Serve with Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves
Indulge your senses and elevate your holiday gathering with these delicious cookies as part of a festive meal.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: The richness of hot cocoa complements the citrusy brightness, creating a warm, cozy drink pairing that’s perfect for chilly nights.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A steaming cup of spiced apple cider brings out the cookie’s warm spices, enhancing the overall holiday experience.
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Festive Cheese Platter: Serve alongside a selection of creamy cheeses like brie and sharp cheddar for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
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Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds and walnuts adds an irresistible crunch that balances the cookies’ soft consistency and enhances the festive mood.
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Gingerbread Sandwiches: Pairing with gingerbread men or sandwiches adds another layer of spiced sweetness, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Seasonal Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with pomegranate seeds and oranges brightens the palate and offers a refreshing contrast to the cookie’s sweetness.
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Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Adding a minty twist to traditional hot cocoa makes for a cheerful pairing that accentuates the cookie’s festive essence.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream by the cookies offers a delightful temperature contrast and adds an extra element of indulgence.
How to Store and Freeze Glazed Little Orange Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate these cookies for extra freshness; they’ll stay tasty for about 10 days when properly sealed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ungazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Glaze them just before serving for the best experience.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes; this helps refresh their softness and brings back that glorious citrus aroma.
Expert Tips for Glazed Little Orange Cookies
Knead Gently: Don’t overwork the dough; knead just until combined. Over-kneading can result in tough cookies.
Rest Period: Be patient during the 30-minute rest. This helps the flavors meld together and results in a better texture.
Glaze Consistency: If your glaze seems too thin, gradually add more confectioners’ sugar until it reaches a nice coating thickness.
Humidity Consideration: Baking can be affected by humidity; if it’s too humid, you might need extra flour for dough consistency or additional sugar for the glaze.
Storage Tip: Store these Glazed Little Orange Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh; they also freeze beautifully for later enjoyment.
Serving Hint: For an extra touch, sprinkle colored sugar on top of the glaze before it sets to add some festive flair.
Glazed Little Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best oranges for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing oranges, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, which indicates juiciness. Ideally, opt for oranges with a bright, vibrant color and smooth skin, avoiding those with dark spots or blemishes as these can indicate spoilage. Freshly zested oranges bring an aromatic brightness to your cookies!
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your Glazed Little Orange Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them in a sealed container for about 10 days. Just remember, the glaze will remain soft, adding to their appeal when you serve!
Can I freeze these cookies, and how?
Certainly! For freezing, first, chill your ungazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour to firm them up. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply glaze them just before serving for the freshest flavor!
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very likely! If your dough seems too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour onto your work surface and knead it in gently until you reach the desired consistency. Alternatively, you can pop the dough in the refrigerator for a short while to make it easier to handle. The key is to avoid overworking it to maintain a tender cookie.
Are these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! These Glazed Little Orange Cookies can be adapted. For gluten-free versions, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If dairy-free is necessary, use almond milk instead of whole milk. The olive oil already makes them a healthier option, but if you need to accommodate for other allergies, simply swap in ingredients that work for you—just be thoughtful in balancing flavors!
How long should I let the glaze set?
I recommend allowing the glaze to set for at least 12 hours at room temperature. This gives it enough time to harden properly, creating that delightful, glossy finish you’ll love. If you can hold off a bit longer—like overnight—it will enhance the cookie’s flavor even more for the perfect holiday treat!
Irresistible Glazed Little Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking powder. Stir until fully mixed. Create a well in the center and add eggs, olive oil, whole milk, and the zest of 2 medium oranges. Mix gently until a rough dough forms, then knead for a couple of minutes until no dry ingredients remain. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has rested, roll a portion into a log about ½ to ¾ inch thick, flatten and cut into diamond shapes roughly 1½ inches long. Maintain space between each cookie.
- Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes until they feel dry to the touch but still soft. Let them cool on the sheet for 5-7 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the glaze by sifting confectioners’ sugar into a bowl. Gradually mix in fresh orange juice and optional Cointreau or Grand Marnier until smooth. Dip each cookie into the glaze and place on wire rack to set.
- Allow the glazed cookies to set for at least 12 hours at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
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