The scent wafting from the oven carries me straight back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where holiday baking was a cherished tradition. These Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves are my nostalgic homage to those sweet memories, capturing the essence of Christmas in every soft, chewy bite. This recipe is not only one of the best Christmas cookies you’ll ever taste, but it also comes together effortlessly, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time fussing in the kitchen. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing on festive cookie trays or gifting in festive tins. Are you ready to fill your home with the warm aromas of the season? Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Nostalgic Flavors: Each bite bursts with the aroma of orange, cinnamon, and cloves, bringing holiday memories to life.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll create a cookie masterpiece without the hassle.
Soft, Chewy Texture: Your family will rave about the tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness that rivals any bakery treat.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for gifting, they brighten up festive cookie trays or make a charming homemade gift.
Holiday Cheer: Baking these cookies fills your home with the warm, inviting scents of Christmas, creating a cozy ambiance everyone will adore.
For more delightful sweets, consider trying Ferrero Rocher Cookies or the traditional Sticky Toffee Pudding for your festive gatherings!
Best Christmas Cookie Ingredients
• Get ready to bake these delightful cookies that embody holiday spirit!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups (280 g) provides the essential structure for the cookies.
- Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup (100 g) adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Dutch-Processed Cocoa – 2 tablespoons deliver a subtle chocolate flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons bring warm, holiday spice to the mix.
- Ground Cloves – 1 teaspoon enhances the cookie’s aromatic profile, making it perfect for Christmas.
- Baking Powder – 2 teaspoons act as a leavening agent for that perfect rise.
- Large Eggs – 2 eggs serve as a binding agent, keeping everything together.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 1/4 cup adds moisture; choose a light-flavored option for the best results.
- Whole Milk – 2 tablespoons ensure the dough is delightful and easy to work with.
- Orange Zest – Zest of 2 medium oranges invigorates the cookies with a fresh aroma.
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ Sugar – 2 cups (250 g) creates the sweet finish you’ll love.
- Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice – 1/4 cup provides the perfect zing to the glaze.
- Cointreau/Grand Marnier (optional) – 1 teaspoon adds a delightful depth of flavor; substitute with extra orange juice if desired.
Indulge in the festive spirit with these Best Christmas Cookies, and watch as they become a treasured addition to your holiday traditions!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Christmas Cookie
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by whisking together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of Dutch-processed cocoa, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder in a medium bowl. Create a well in the center, then add 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of whole milk, and the zest of 2 medium oranges. Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead by hand until smooth. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
After the dough has rested, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the dough into quarters for easier handling. Roll one quarter into a rope shape, about 1-inch thick, and flatten it slightly. Cut the flattened dough into diamond shapes or your preferred cookie shape. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring there’s space between each cookie, then bake for 9 to 11 minutes. They should feel slightly firm to the touch. Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack.
Step 3: Glaze the Cookies
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by sifting 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar into a bowl. Slowly mix in 1/4 cup of fresh squeezed orange juice until you reach a smooth consistency. If you’re using it, stir in 1 teaspoon of Cointreau or Grand Marnier for an added flavor boost. Once the cookies are completely cool, dip each one into the glaze, ensuring they are well coated, and then return them to the wire rack. Allow the glaze to dry for at least 12 hours before serving for the best results.
What to Serve with Best Christmas Cookie: Soft Glazed Orange Delight
Create the perfect holiday spread that complements the warm, spicy flavors of these glazed orange cookies!
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: This rich, creamy drink enhances the cookie’s flavors while adding a comforting touch to your festive gatherings.
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Coffee with Cinnamon: A warm cup of coffee, lightly sprinkled with cinnamon, pairs beautifully, enhancing the cookies’ aromatic spices.
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Creamy Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a rich, nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the citrusy sweetness of the cookies.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai elevate the cookie experience, bringing forth the hints of cinnamon and cloves in each bite.
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Fruit and Nut Platter: Fresh fruits like oranges and apples alongside a variety of nuts, provide a refreshing crunch to balance the cookies’ softness.
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Minty Yogurt Dip: A cool, mint-infused yogurt dip offers a delightful contrast, making each bite refreshing and fun.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: This decadent dessert adds a fancy touch, where the fruity chocolate complements the orange flavor splendidly.
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Classic Gingerbread: Additional holiday cookies like gingerbread provide a nostalgic, festive variety while maintaining the warm spice theme.
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Festive Cheese Board: Incorporate soft cheeses, dried fruits, and preserves to create a savory option that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Sparkling Grapefruit Mocktail: This refreshing drink offers a zesty citrus burst that complements the flavors of the cookies while adding a festive flair to your table.
Expert Tips for Best Christmas Cookie
- Cool Before Glazing: Ensure cookies are completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and losing its shape.
- Adjust Glaze Consistency: For a thicker glaze, gradually add more confectioners’ sugar or a touch of orange juice until your desired consistency is reached.
- Prevent Dough Stickiness: If the dough becomes too sticky while shaping, use cornstarch instead of flour for rolling—it works wonders!
- Flavor Boost: A pinch of salt added to the dough can enhance flavors significantly, bringing out the warmth of the spices in these best Christmas cookies.
- Rest for Flavor: Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes as instructed; this enhances the texture and makes the cookies even more delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Glazed Orange Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep unglazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and chewiness.
Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the fridge, but be sure to place them in a tightly sealed container to avoid absorbing odors. They will stay fresh for about 10 days.
Freezer: You can freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer bag. Glaze them after thawing for the best results.
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or you can reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. These best Christmas cookies are ultra-delicious when served slightly warm!
Best Christmas Cookie Variations
Feel free to play with these ideas to create your own twist on these festive delights!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option that still tastes fabulous.
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch in every bite. The walnuts add a rich flavor and texture that complements the spices beautifully.
- Citrus Twist: Use lemon or lime zest instead of orange zest for a refreshing twist that brightens the cookies. This change can provide a unique and zesty flavor profile that is equally as delightful.
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a decadent chocolatey surprise. The chocolate pairs harmoniously with the spices, creating an irresistible treat.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to give the cookies a subtle heat. A little spice can create an intriguing flavor sensation that surprises the palate.
- Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond milk or any plant-based milk to make these cookies dairy-free while still keeping them moist and delicious. Almond milk adds just a hint of nuttiness that harmonizes with the other flavors.
- Extra Glaze: For an even sweeter experience, double the glaze ingredients for an extra thick coating that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The additional glaze will create a glossy finish that makes them even more visually appealing!
- Seasonal Herbs: Add 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the dough for an unexpected herbaceous note. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile, celebrating seasonal freshness in a unique way.
For more delicious ideas to brighten up your holiday baking, check out these delightful Cookies Cream Peanut and Neiman Marcus Cookies. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the holiday spirit without stress. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by keeping it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow the dough to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before shaping and baking. You can also bake the cookies up to 3 days ahead; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to glaze. For the glaze, you can mix it up to a week prior and store it in the fridge, bringing it to room temperature before dipping the cookies. Preparing in advance will help ensure you enjoy these delightful cookies with minimal effort during the busy holiday season!
Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best oranges for this recipe?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, look for oranges that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a vibrant, unblemished skin. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as they may be overripe. Organic oranges are a great option too, as they tend to have a more robust flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
These cookies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you notice them getting a bit dry, a small slice of bread placed inside can help maintain their moisture. Be sure to keep them out of direct sunlight to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze the glazed cookies?
Yes, you definitely can! For the best results, freeze the unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight freezer bag. When you are ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature before glazing. This helps the glaze adhere better and enhances the overall flavor.
What should I do if the cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much during baking, it may be due to the dough being too soft. Make sure to let the dough chill for at least 30 minutes before shaping and baking. Also, ensure your oven is calibrated correctly, as an overly warm oven can contribute to excessive spreading.
Are these cookies suitable for people with gluten allergies?
While this recipe primarily calls for all-purpose flour, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I recommend choosing a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture, as it will help bind the ingredients together just like traditional flour does.
Can I add other spices to these cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of spices, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for an extra depth of flavor. These spices pair wonderfully with orange and cinnamon, enhancing the holiday charm of your Glazed Orange Cookies. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite spices!
Best Christmas Cookie: Soft Glazed Orange Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Create a well, add eggs, olive oil, milk, and orange zest. Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide dough into quarters. Roll one quarter into a rope shape, cut into desired cookie shapes. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until slightly firm. Cool on a wire rack.
- Sift confectioners' sugar into a bowl, mix in orange juice until smooth. Stir in Cointreau if using. Dip cooled cookies in the glaze, then allow to dry on a wire rack for at least 12 hours.
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