Ginger Cookies
Indulge in the warm, spicy aroma of ginger cookies that evoke the essence of cozy gatherings and festive celebrations. With a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, these cookies are not only delicious but also simple to make. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a holiday gift, ginger cookies will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes for baking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 120
– Total Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Protein: 1g
– Fiber: 0.5g
This is based on a single cookie serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are firm.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If you prefer a vegan version, use coconut oil instead of butter and flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement.
Serving and Pairings
These ginger cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of milk. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes for the holiday season.
Storage and Reheating
Store the ginger cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Do not skip chilling the dough; it helps the cookies maintain their shape.
- Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
- Use fresh spices for maximum flavor.
- Avoid overbaking; cookies should be soft in the center.
- Measure ingredients accurately to ensure proper consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Roll the dough in sugar before baking for a sweet crust.
- Add chopped crystallized ginger for extra zing.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg for unique flavors.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets for easy cleanup.
FAQs
Can I make ginger cookies ahead of time?
Yes, ginger cookie dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months, thaw it, and bake when ready.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will slightly differ.
Are ginger cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free ginger cookies, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
How can I make my cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, bake them for a shorter time and ensure they remain slightly underbaked when removed from the oven.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your ginger cookies. Just fold them in with the dry ingredients.
Conclusion
Ginger cookies are more than just a treat; they embody warmth and comfort in every bite. With their delightful spice and chewy texture, they are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Experiment with the recipe and find your perfect blend of flavors!
Ginger Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are firm.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
