Name: Delightful Christmas Cookie Recipe with Glazed Orange Twist
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.); 1 cup White Granulated Sugar (Consider coconut sugar for a more natural option.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Freshly ground is recommended for maximum flavor.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Avoid using whole cloves, as they will affect texture.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Don’t substitute with baking soda without adjusting ratios.); 2 large Eggs (For vegan option, substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).); 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Light-flavored oils prevent overpowering the cookie.); 1/4 cup Whole Milk (Substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.); Zest of 2 Oranges (Fresh zest is essential for vibrancy in taste.); 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar (Can replace with powdered coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.); 1/4 cup Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice (Bottled juice may lack the fresh taste.); 2 tablespoons Cointreau or Grand Marnier (Optional; replace with more orange juice if desired.)

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As the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, I’m transported to cherished holiday gatherings filled with laughter and joy. These Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves encapsulate that festive spirit perfectly, making them a must-try Christmas cookie for every home chef. With their vibrant citrus flavor and a hint of warm spice, they are not only easy to whip up but also look stunning on any cookie platter. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to savor the holidays stress-free. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into the delightful world of cookie baking and create a batch that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why are these cookies a holiday favorite?

Nostalgic flavors of orange, cinnamon, and cloves fill your home with the spirit of the season. These cookies are not just delicious; they are visually stunning with a glistening glaze that captures attention. Easy to make, even novice bakers can whip up a batch without stress. Make-ahead magic lets you prepare them in advance, perfect for busy holiday schedules. Plus, they’re versatile enough to appeal to everyone at your gathering! For extra inspiration, check out our variation ideas for customizing these treats to suit your taste.

Christmas Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
• White Granulated Sugar – Primary sweetener; consider coconut sugar for a more natural option.
• Ground Cinnamon – Key spice for warmth; freshly ground is recommended for maximum flavor.
• Ground Cloves – Adds a distinct holiday aroma; avoid using whole cloves, as they will affect texture.
• Baking Powder – Provides leavening for a light texture; don’t substitute with baking soda without adjusting ratios.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; for a vegan option, substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Provides fat content, making cookies tender; light-flavored oils prevent overpowering the cookie.
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Zest of Oranges – Infuses flavor and aroma; fresh zest is essential for vibrancy in taste.

For the Glaze
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Used for glazing; can replace with powdered coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
• Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice – Gives flavor and consistency to the glaze; bottled juice may lack the fresh taste.
• Cointreau or Grand Marnier (Optional) – Adds depth to the glaze; replace with more orange juice if desired.

These ingredients work harmoniously to create unforgettable Christmas cookies that evoke warmth, love, and holiday cheer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Christmas Cookie Recipe – Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and baking powder until evenly combined. Aim for a consistent blend, which ensures that the flavors distribute well throughout the cookies. This step sets a solid foundation for your Christmas cookies, enhancing their aromatic appeal.

Step 2: Combine and Knead the Dough
Create a well in the center of your dry mixture, then add the eggs, extra virgin olive oil, whole milk, and freshly grated orange zest. Mix using a spatula or your hands until the ingredients form a rough dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes to develop flavor and texture.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and reach that perfect soft, chewy texture. Additionally, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, making the cleanup process a breeze. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the enticing aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies!

Step 4: Shape the Cookies
After the resting period, take a quarter of the dough and roll it into a rope approximately ½ to ¾ inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the rope into 1.5-inch diamond-shaped pieces. Place these shaped cookies on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about an inch apart for even baking. This step brings the festive charm of glazed orange cookies to life!

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9-11 minutes or until they are dry to the touch and lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; they should be slightly soft when you pull them out, as they will firm up during cooling. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5-7 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack, where they need about an hour to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the confectioners’ sugar, fresh orange juice, and Cointreau (if using) in a bowl. Adjust the consistency as needed; the glaze should be smooth and slightly pourable. This sweetened orange glaze will provide a delicious finishing touch to your Christmas cookie.

Step 7: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled, dip the tops into the prepared glaze, ensuring an even coating. Return the glazed cookies to the wire rack and let them sit overnight for the glaze to harden properly. Allowing a minimum of 12 hours ensures your glazed orange cookies have the perfect texture and flavor, making them irresistible additions to your holiday spread!

What to Serve with Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves

There’s nothing quite like a cozy holiday gathering filled with laughter, joy, and these delightful cookies that warm the heart and please the palate.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes provides a comforting balance to the spiced cookies’ sweetness, making it a delightful addition to your holiday feast.
Mulled Wine: Spiced and aromatic, this warm drink complements the flavors of cinnamon and cloves beautifully, enhancing your festive atmosphere. Enjoying a sip while indulging in cookies creates a perfect pairing.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright mix of oranges, berries, and pomegranate seeds adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies and lightens the dessert table.
Warm Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced flavors of apple crisp resonate with the spices from the cookies, creating a heartwarming, cozy dessert experience that will have everyone reminiscing about childhood holidays.
Honeyed Carrots: Glazed with honey and a hint of spice, these sweet carrots provide a touch of sweetness and warmth, complementing the citrus notes in the cookies perfectly.
Decadent Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate drizzled with orange zest echoes the cookie flavors while indulging your sweet tooth, making for a wonderfully cozy pairing.
Gingerbread Cheesecake: The spiced flavors of gingerbread blend well with the orange cookies, creating a layered dessert experience that captures the holiday spirit in every bite.
Peppermint Bark: A crunchy, chocolatey treat with a refreshing peppermint kick rounds out the cookie plate perfectly and adds a festive touch to your gatherings.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew can enhance the cookie experience, allowing the flavors of orange and spices to flourish while warming you from the inside out.

How to Store and Freeze Glazed Orange Cookies

Room Temperature: Store these Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer cookie, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, but the glaze may lose some of its shine.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the ungazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your cookies after freezing, thaw them at room temperature for about 1 hour. For a fresher taste, warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, the cookies themselves can be baked and glazed in advance; simply let them sit out overnight to harden the glaze and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their freshness even longer, consider freezing the unglazed cookies for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw and glaze, and you’ll be left with delightful, spiced cookies that taste just as fresh as the day you made them—perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Expert Tips for Glazed Orange Cookies

Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired powder may not provide the lift needed for light, airy Christmas cookies.
Perfectly Soft: Cookies should be slightly soft when removed from the oven; they’ll firm up while cooling, leading to the right texture.
Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky, dust it with cornstarch instead of flour to avoid adding extra flour and altering the taste.
Enhanced Flavor: To achieve a more pronounced orange taste, increase the quantity of orange zest in both the dough and the glaze for truly vibrant cookies.
Glaze Time: Allow the cookies to sit overnight after glazing; this helps the glaze harden perfectly and enhances the overall presentation.

Christmas Cookie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor these delightful cookies to fit your taste preferences.

Citrus Swap: Replace orange zest with lemon or lime for a refreshing twist that brings brightness and zest.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for some added crunch and flavor that perfectly complements the spices.
Fruitful Twist: Add dried cranberries or golden raisins to the dough for a sweet burst of flavor and chewy texture in every bite.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a certified gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to enjoy these cookies while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap whole milk with almond or coconut milk to create a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Flavor Infusion: Use almond or hazelnut oil in place of olive oil for a nutty undertone that enhances the cookie experience.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger for an unexpected spicy kick, warming up the flavors even more during the holiday season.
Choco-Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks to the dough, creating a beautiful balance between citrus and chocolaty goodness.

With these variations, there’s no limit to how you can enjoy your Christmas cookie adventures! For more creative ideas, explore our essential expert tips and consider making a delightful cookie platter to share with family and friends.

Glazed Orange Cookies with Cinnamon and Cloves Recipe FAQs

What type of oranges should I use for the glaze?
Using fresh, juicy oranges is key for the best flavor! Look for ones that are slightly firm with a vibrant color and a fragrant aroma—these often have the most zest and juice. If they have dark spots or are too soft, they might be past their prime.

How long can I store these cookies?
You can store these Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors long after baking. If you prefer them a bit firmer, consider refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks, but note that the glaze may lose some of its shine.

Can I freeze glazed orange cookies?
Absolutely! For optimal freshness, it’s best to freeze the cookies before glazing. Place the ungazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is sticking to your hands or work surface, don’t panic! Dust it lightly with cornstarch instead of additional flour. This helps maintain the intended flavor without altering the texture. Knead gently until it’s manageable, and you’re good to go!

Can these cookies be made vegan?
Definitely! To create a vegan version of these glazed orange cookies, simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based milk instead of whole milk. They’ll still retain their delightful taste and texture, perfect for everyone to enjoy during the holidays!

How can I enhance the flavor of my cookies?
Great question! For an even more pronounced citrus kick, consider increasing the amount of orange zest in both the dough and glaze. Additionally, using freshly ground spices instead of pre-ground ones can intensify the flavors remarkably, making your Christmas cookies even more aromatic and flavorful!