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These orange clove cookies are pure winter nostalgia in a bite with bright citrusy aroma and a gentle warmth from ground cloves. I reach for this recipe every December when oranges are overflowing and every tray fills my kitchen with an unbelievable festive scent. The soft crumb and crisp edges always remind me of holiday afternoons with mugs of tea and plates piled high.
I first made these cookies for my neighbor’s holiday party years ago and have not spent a December since without baking them. They are one of the treats my family demands again and again.
Gather Your Ingredients
- All purpose flour: Delivers structure and a tender bite for the cookie
- Salt: Balances sweetness and brings forward the flavors
- Unsalted butter: Gives richness and helps the orange and clove flavors shine
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps cookies brown evenly
- Brown sugar: Offers moisture and depth
- Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth optional icing
- Oranges: Look for firm oranges with bright unblemished skin for zesting
- Ground cloves: Use fresh ground cloves for best spice flavor
How to Make It
- Preheat the Oven:
- Heat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl work the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars. Beat for about four minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This incorporates air to help your cookies spread and develop a soft crumb.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl whisk together the flour and salt. Make sure no lumps remain. This will ensure each cookie has a consistent texture.
- Combine and Zest:
- Gradually add your flour mixture into the butter mixture until just combined. At this stage fold in a tablespoon of fine orange zest and one quarter teaspoon ground cloves for full flavor distribution.
- Portion and Bake:
- Scoop the dough into tablespoon sized balls and set on prepared trays spaced two inches apart. Bake for twelve to sixteen minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers just firm.
- Cool and Ice:
- Allow cookies to cool on the tray for five minutes then transfer to a rack. For optional icing whisk powdered sugar with a teaspoon or two of water or milk until smooth. Drizzle or spread over completely cooled cookies.
My favorite ingredient is always the fresh orange zest. Every time I grate an orange the aroma instantly takes me back to childhood holidays making gifts in the kitchen. These cookies once became the highlight of a family cookie swap and are now my default for edible presents.
Flavor Boosters
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature and they will stay soft for about four days. Layer with wax paper if stacking to keep the icing beautiful. For longer storage place them in the freezer where they stay fresh for up to three months. Always thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect on their own but also shine beside a mug of hot chocolate or tea. Stack them on a plate for festive gatherings or wrap a bundle in parchment paper with ribbon as a homemade holiday gift. For an extra indulgent treat sandwich two cookies together with a little buttercream or chocolate ganache.
Creative Twists
If you do not have fresh oranges you can use tangerine or clementine zest for a slightly different citrus note. Ground cinnamon can be used in place of cloves for those who do not care for bold spice. You may also substitute half the all purpose flour with white whole wheat flour for a little extra nuttiness.
With a fragrant aroma, a soft texture, and a festive spirit these cookies are a winter favorite for my family. Enjoy them fresh or tucked into holiday gift boxes for friends.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How do I ensure a soft texture for these cookies?
Cream the butter and sugars thoroughly until light and fluffy. Avoid overbaking, as this preserves softness.
- → Can I skip the powdered sugar icing?
Yes, the icing is optional. The cookies taste delicious on their own, but icing adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.
- → What orange element works best for flavor?
Freshly grated orange zest imparts the brightest citrus flavor, enhancing both aroma and taste.
- → Is it possible to freeze these cookies?
Yes, baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature prior to serving.
- → Can margarine replace unsalted butter?
Margarine can be used, though butter yields a richer flavor and better texture in the cookies.