Ginger Molasses Sugar Cookies

Introduction

Ginger Molasses Sugar Cookies

These Ginger Molasses Sugar Cookies are soft and chewy with a perfect balance of warm spices and deep molasses flavor. Coated in sugar before baking, they have a delightful crackly exterior that makes them irresistible.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

- all-purpose flour: 250g
- baking soda: 1 tsp
- ground ginger: 1 ½ tsp
- ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- ground cloves: ¼ tsp
- salt: ½ tsp
- unsalted butter, softened: 115g
- light brown sugar: 100g
- granulated sugar: 50g (plus extra for rolling)
- large egg: 1
- molasses: 80ml
- vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

Preparation for these cookies takes about 15 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 18 cookies

To make your Ginger Molasses Sugar Cookies, follow the simple steps of mixing your ingredients, chilling the dough, rolling it in sugar, and baking to perfection. Enjoy the warm spices and delightful texture in every bite!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the large egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing together until fully incorporated.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined without over-mixing.

Chill the Dough

Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, which helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Form Cookie Balls

Using your hands, roll the dough into balls weighing approximately 25g each. Coat each ball in granulated sugar.

Prepare for Baking

Place the sugar-coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 5cm apart.

Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops display a crackled appearance.

Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Ingredient Storage

Ensure your molasses and spices are fresh for the best flavor in your cookies.

Dough Chilling Time

Do not skip the chilling step, as it is crucial for achieving the right texture and preventing the cookies from spreading too much.

Cookie Size Variation

If you prefer larger cookies, you can increase the size of the dough balls, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

Crackled Appearance

For a more pronounced crackled appearance, consider adding an extra sprinkle of sugar on top of the dough balls before baking.

Storage Instructions

To maintain freshness, store the Ginger Molasses Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delicious on their own but can be elevated by pairing them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a cheese platter during holiday gatherings or pack them in gift boxes for friends and family. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a delightful twist on a classic dessert.

Nutritional Information

Each Ginger Molasses Sugar Cookie (approximately 25g) contains roughly:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 1g

Please note that these values may vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to modify the recipe, consider the following substitutions:
- For all-purpose flour, you can use a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Unsalted butter can be substituted with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Instead of molasses, honey or maple syrup can work, but it will change the flavor slightly.
- You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) to make it egg-free.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference; using freshly grated ginger will give an extra kick.

Cook Techniques

Measuring Ingredients Accurately

For the best results, ensure that you measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and sugar, and use measuring cups and spoons for liquids like molasses and vanilla extract.

Creaming Butter and Sugar

Creaming the softened unsalted butter with sugars until light and fluffy is crucial for the texture of the cookies. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a softer cookie.

Chilling the Dough

Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and reducing spreading during baking.

Rolling in Sugar

Coating the cookie dough balls in granulated sugar before baking gives the cookies a beautiful, crackly exterior and adds a slight crunch.

Baking at the Right Temperature

Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 175°C (350°F). This temperature allows the cookies to bake evenly, creating a soft center while developing a slightly crisp edge.

Cooling the Cookies

After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents them from breaking apart.

FAQ

Can I use dark molasses instead of light molasses?

Yes, you can use dark molasses; however, it will give the cookies a stronger, more intense flavor.

What can I substitute for butter?

You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture and flavor.

How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but ensure it has a binding agent if necessary.

What is the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Make sure to chill the dough before baking and ensure your ingredients are measured properly. Additionally, avoid using warm baking sheets.

Conclusion

These Ginger Molasses Sugar Cookies offer a harmonious blend of spices and sweetness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Their soft and chewy texture, combined with a crisp sugar-coated exterior, creates a comforting cookie that warms the heart. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these cookies are bound to become a favorite.

Chocolate Chip Ginger Molasses Cookies

Add chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, sweet contrast to the spices in the cookies. This combination enhances the flavor profile while maintaining the chewy texture you love.

Pumpkin Spice Ginger Molasses Cookies

Incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the cookie batter for a seasonal twist. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, making these cookies perfect for fall.

Cranberry Ginger Molasses Cookies

Mix in dried cranberries for a tart burst of flavor that complements the warm spices beautifully. This combination adds color and chewiness to your cookies.

Nutty Ginger Molasses Cookies

Fold in your choice of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and richness. The nuts enhance the overall texture and add depth to the flavor.

Glazed Ginger Molasses Cookies

After baking, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cookies for a sweet finish. This not only adds sweetness but also a beautiful decorative touch.

Molasses Ginger Snap Sandwich Cookies

Create sandwich cookies by filling two ginger molasses cookies with cream cheese frosting or spiced buttercream. This addition creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.