The scent of these delightful gingersnap cookies wafting from the oven will transport you straight to a cozy winter wonderland. Each bite is an explosion of warm spices and the perfect amount of sweetness, making them the perfect treat for the holiday season or a comforting dessert any time of the year.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples. The only ingredient that might be challenging to find is molasses. In case you can't find molasses at your local supermarket, it can be substituted with dark corn syrup, honey, or brown sugar. However, molasses is what gives gingersnap cookies their distinctive flavor and color.
Gingersnap Cookies Delight Ingredients
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the cookies.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and aroma of the other ingredients.
Eggs: Provides structure and helps the cookies rise.
Molasses: Gives the cookies their classic flavor and color.
All purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cookies.
Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, causing the cookies to rise and become light and fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the cookies.
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor.
Ground ginger: Provides the signature taste of gingersnap cookies.
Ground black pepper: Gives the cookies a subtle heat.
One reader, Beaufort Copeland says:
These gingersnap cookies are a delight! The warm blend of ginger and molasses creates a comforting aroma, and the cookies have the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers. The recipe was easy to follow, and the cookies turned out beautifully. I'll definitely be making these again!
Essential Techniques for Baking Gingersnap Cookies
How to prepare the dough: Mix the butter, sugar, vanilla, eggs, and molasses until well-combined. Then, add the dry ingredients and mix until incorporated.
How to freeze the dough: Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap, press the dough into the pan, and cover it with the plastic overhangs. Freeze the dough until very firm, preferably overnight.
How to slice the frozen dough: Unwrap and remove the frozen dough from the pan, then slice it into thin slices, no more than 1/8 inch thick.
How to bake the cookies: Place the thin slices on a parchment or a silpat-lined sheet pan, ensuring they are spaced at least an inch apart. Bake at 350°F until the edges turn dark brown, which typically takes 7-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices. Check for doneness at 7 minutes.
How To Make Gingersnap Cookies
These sweet and piquant gingersnap cookies are sliced ultra-thin for a crispy and easy bite that practically melts in your mouth.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8ozunsalted butter
- 1¼cupgranulated sugar
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 2small eggs
- ⅓cupmolasses
- 3cupsall purpose flour
- 2½tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- 2½tspcinnamon
- 2½tspground ginger
- ⅛tspblack pepper,finely ground
Instructions
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Beat the butter until soft, then add the sugar, and beat until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and eggs, and beat until fluffy. Add the molasses and beat until well-mixed.
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Vigorously whisk together the dry ingredients in a bowl.
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Add the flour mixture to the butter/sugar/egg mixture, ⅓ at a time. Mix only until the dry ingredients become incorporated.
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Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap. Press the dough into the bottom of the pan. Pack it tightly, and try to make the top as level as possible.
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Cover the dough with plastic overhangs. Freeze until very firm, preferably overnight.
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Unwrap and remove dough from the pan. Slice brick into thin slices, no more than ⅛-inch.
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Working in batches, place thin slices on a parchment or a Silpat-lined sheet pan.
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Bake at 350 degrees F for for 7 to 12 minutes, until the edges turn dark brown.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 46.16kcal
- Fat: 2.03g
- Saturated Fat: 1.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.53g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.10g
- Carbohydrates: 6.56g
- Fiber: 0.15g
- Sugar: 3.49g
- Protein: 0.53g
- Cholesterol: 8.02mg
- Sodium: 34.72mg
- Calcium: 4.77mg
- Potassium: 24.02mg
- Iron: 0.27mg
- Vitamin A: 17.44µg
- Vitamin C: 0.00mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Gingersnap Cookies
When preparing the gingersnap cookie dough, ensure that you pack it tightly and evenly in the loaf pan before freezing. This will help you achieve uniform thickness when slicing the frozen dough, resulting in evenly baked cookies. Also, remember to slice the dough as thin as possible. Thinner slices will yield crispier cookies, while thicker slices will result in a softer, chewier texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Gingersnap Cookies Delight Recipe
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure you have everything you need.
Chill the dough: After mixing the dough, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle and cut.
Use a food processor: Consider using a food processor to quickly mix the dough ingredients together.
Bake in batches: Instead of baking all the cookies at once, bake them in batches to save time and ensure even baking.
Store in airtight containers: Once the cookies are baked and cooled, store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh for longer.
Substitute Ingredients For Gingersnap Cookies Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the cookies, and it can also be a suitable replacement for butter in baking.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for granulated sugar and adds a subtle caramel flavor to the cookies.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This can replace eggs as a binding agent in the recipe.
molasses - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a similar depth of flavor and sweetness to the cookies as molasses.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative, adding a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the cookies.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, but it may affect the texture and rise of the cookies, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon, adding a different dimension to the cookies.
ground ginger - Substitute with freshly grated ginger: Freshly grated ginger can provide a more intense and fresher flavor compared to ground ginger, enhancing the overall taste of the cookies.
ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the cookies, complementing the other spices.
Creative Ways to Present Gingersnap Cookies
Elevate the cookie: Place the gingersnap cookies on a bed of spun sugar to add height and elegance to the presentation.
Incorporate seasonal fruits: Garnish the plate with fresh berries or thinly sliced pears to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Artistic drizzle: Create an artistic drizzle of caramel sauce on the plate to add a touch of sophistication and visual appeal.
Edible flowers: Garnish the plate with delicate edible flowers such as pansies or violets to add a whimsical and elegant touch.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve to add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.
Accompany with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream: Serve the gingersnap cookies with a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream to add a creamy and luxurious element to the dish.
Chocolate garnish: Create a decorative chocolate garnish using tempered chocolate to add a sophisticated and visually appealing element to the plate.
Serve with a side of spiced whipped cream: Present the gingersnap cookies with a quenelle of spiced whipped cream to add a creamy, flavorful element to the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Delightful Gingersnap Cookies
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, pureeing, and blending ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for whipping, beating, and stirring ingredients to incorporate air and create smooth mixtures.
- Loaf pan: A loaf pan is a deep, rectangular-shaped baking pan used for baking bread, cakes, and other baked goods in a specific shape.
- Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap, also known as cling film, is a thin plastic material commonly used to cover and wrap food items to keep them fresh.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Sheet pan: A sheet pan, also known as a baking sheet, is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
- Silpat: A Silpat is a non-stick silicone baking mat that can be placed on a sheet pan to prevent food from sticking and promote even baking.
Storing and Freezing Gingersnap Cookies for Optimal Freshness
Once the gingersnap cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them crisp, place a piece of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and help maintain the cookies' texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the gingersnap cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1 hour. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen gingersnap cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a slightly warm cookie, you can place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes before serving.
If you want to store the dough for later use, wrap the unsliced dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking as directed in the recipe.
How To Reheat Leftover Gingersnap Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the gingersnap cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp around the edges. This method will help restore their original texture and bring out the flavors of the cinnamon, ginger, and molasses.
For a softer, chewier texture, wrap the gingersnap cookies in a damp paper towel and microwave them on high for 10-15 seconds. The moisture from the paper towel will help soften the cookies without making them soggy. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become too soft and lose their distinctive texture.
If you have a few gingersnap cookies left, consider crumbling them over a bowl of vanilla ice cream or yogurt. The contrast of the cold, creamy base and the warm, spicy crumbles will create a delightful dessert experience. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of indulgence.
For a quick and easy treat, break the gingersnap cookies into small pieces and mix them with some softened butter and cream cheese. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate until firm. These little gingersnap truffles are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Interesting Fact About Gingersnap Cookies
The gingersnap cookies delight recipe is a classic holiday treat that has been enjoyed for generations. These cookies are known for their warm, spicy flavor and crisp texture, making them a perfect accompaniment to a cup of hot tea or coffee. The combination of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon gives these cookies a unique and delicious taste that is sure to please any palate. Whether enjoyed on their own or used as a base for a dessert, gingersnap cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday spread.
Is Making Gingersnap Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this gingersnap cookies delight recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in most households, and the yield is substantial. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it a budget-friendly treat. The delightful flavors and the ease of preparation make it a great choice for a homemade dessert. I would rate this recipe a solid 9 out of 10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Are Gingersnap Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The gingersnap cookies delight recipe is a delightful treat, but it may not be the healthiest option due to its high sugar and butter content. The recipe calls for 1¼ cup of granulated sugar and 8 oz of unsalted butter, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, the recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutritional benefits of whole grain flours.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup and replace it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Use whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
- Replace half of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce to reduce the overall fat content
- Add more spices like nutmeg or cloves to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive sugar
- Incorporate chopped nuts or dried fruits to provide additional nutrients and texture
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the gingersnap cookies while still enjoying their delightful taste and aroma. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in sweet treats, even with healthier modifications.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Gingersnap Cookie Recipe
This gingersnap cookie recipe is a delightful twist on a classic treat. The combination of molasses, ginger, and spices creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile. The method of freezing the dough in a loaf pan and slicing it thinly before baking is a unique approach that ensures a crisp and chewy texture. The use of black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth to the cookies. Overall, this recipe promises a delightful and flavorful gingersnap cookie that is sure to impress.
Enhance Your Gingersnap Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Gingersnap Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful treat that guarantees satisfaction. The combination of ginger, molasses, and cinnamon creates a symphony of warm, comforting flavors. The meticulous freezing process ensures perfect texture and consistency. The use of unsalted butter and precise measurements guarantees a balanced and rich taste. The inclusion of black pepper adds a subtle, unexpected depth. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, and indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of these gingersnap cookies.
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