Ready to sweeten up your holiday season? This decadent treat of white chocolate dipped ginger cookies is a perfect choice. You'll love the mix of sweet and spicy flavors, and the added white chocolate takes the cookie to a whole new level. They're festive, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
While most ingredients in this recipe might be found in your pantry, like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, there are a few you may need to seek out. The ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg are essential for achieving the right balance of spice in these ginger cookies. Molasses is another crucial ingredient that gives the cookies their rich, deep flavor. Don't forget to pick up white chocolate chips and shortening for the dip, and if you're feeling festive, some red and green candy melts for decoration.
Essential Ingredients for White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies
All-purpose flour: This is the base for our cookie dough. It provides the structure for the cookies.
Baking soda: It creates the necessary rise in the cookies.
Salt: It helps to enhance all the flavors.
Ground spices: Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg create a warm and spicy flavor profile.
Unsalted butter: It adds a rich, buttery flavor to the cookies.
Sugars: A mix of granulated and light-brown sugar adds sweetness and a bit of molasses flavor.
Egg: It binds the ingredients together.
Molasses: It gives the cookies a rich, deep flavor.
Vanilla extract: It enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
White chocolate chips: These are melted for the cookie dip, adding a sweet creaminess.
Shortening: It helps the chocolate to melt smoothly.
Candy melts: Optional, for festive decoration.
One reader, Arte Warner says:
These white chocolate dipped ginger cookies are a delightful treat! The combination of warm spices and creamy white chocolate is simply divine. The cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, and the white chocolate adds a sweet and indulgent touch. They're a hit with everyone who tries them!
Techniques Required for Making White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies
How to melt white chocolate: Melt 1 cup of white chocolate chips with 1 tbsp shortening at a time in the microwave on high power in 10-second intervals, stirring between intervals, until melted, smooth, and fairly runny. Make batches of it because it will cool while dipping, plus it's easy to burn, so do not work with too much of it at a time.
How to dip cookies in white chocolate: Dip half of each cookie in the melted white chocolate mixture, then run the bottom of the cookie slightly along the edge of the bowl to remove excess, and return it to the silpat or parchment paper to set at room temperature.
How to decorate with candy melts: Melt the candy melts according to the directions on the package. Work in small batches because it sets quickly. Pour into piping bags fitted with a #4 tip and pipe decorations. Allow it to set at room temperature.
How To Make White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies
Spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg these soft and chewy ginger cookies burst in flavors that make holidays exciting! Finish them with a dip in white chocolate.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2¼cupsall-purpose flour
- 1tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- 2tspground ginger
- 1tspground cinnamon
- ¼tspground cloves
- ¼tspground nutmeg
- ¾cupunsalted butter,softened
- ½cupgranulated sugar,plus 3 tbsp, divided
- ½cuplight-brown sugar,packed
- 1large egg
- ¼cupmolasses
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 3cupswhite chocolate chips
- 3tbspshortening
- red and green candy melts,or tinted royal icing
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg for 20 seconds. Set aside.
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In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together butter, ½ cup granulated sugar and brown sugar until well blended. Mix in egg, then blend in molasses and vanilla.
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With the mixer set on low speed, slowly add in dry ingredients and mix until combined. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F during the last 10 minutes of chilling.
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Scoop dough out about 1½ tablespoon at a time, shape into balls then roll in remaining 3 tablespoons granulated sugar.
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Transfer to Silpat or parchment paper-lined baking sheets, spacing cookies 2 inches apart. Flatten tops just slightly to evenly level. Bake in preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep dough that is not currently baking chilled.
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Cool on baking sheet for several minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup white chocolate chips with 1 Tbsp shortening at a time in the microwave on high power in 10-second intervals, stirring between intervals, until melted, smooth, and fairly runny. Make batches of it because it will cool while dipping, plus it’s easy to burn so do not work with too much of it at a time.
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Dip half of each cookie in the melted white chocolate mixture then run bottom of cookie slightly along the edge of the bowl to remove excess, then return to Silpat or parchment paper to set at room temperature.
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If doing the holly decoration, melt candy melts according to directions on the package. Work in small batches because it sets quickly. Pour into piping bags fitted with a #4 tip and pipe decorations. Allow to set a room temperature.
Nutrition
- Calories: 211.94kcal
- Fat: 11.61g
- Saturated Fat: 6.61g
- Trans Fat: 0.36g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.34g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.78g
- Carbohydrates: 25.25g
- Fiber: 0.36g
- Sugar: 17.88g
- Protein: 2.24g
- Cholesterol: 21.97mg
- Sodium: 101.11mg
- Calcium: 46.54mg
- Potassium: 109.33mg
- Iron: 0.69mg
- Vitamin A: 43.03µg
- Vitamin C: 0.09mg
Helpful Technique for Dipping Ginger Cookies in White Chocolate
When melting your white chocolate chips for dipping, it's important to do so in small batches. This not only prevents the chocolate from burning but also ensures it remains at the right consistency for dipping. If the chocolate cools and thickens, it may not adhere to the cookies as well. Additionally, using a microwave-safe bowl and heating in short intervals while stirring in between helps to achieve a smooth and evenly melted chocolate. Remember, patience is key when working with melted chocolate.
Time-Saving Tips for This Ginger Cookie Recipe
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough for at least an hour will make it easier to handle and prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help you create uniformly sized cookies, saving time and ensuring even baking.
Melt chocolate in batches: Melting the white chocolate in small batches will prevent it from cooling too quickly and ensure a smooth and runny consistency for dipping.
Work in small batches: Working in small batches will help you manage the chocolate dipping process more efficiently and prevent the chocolate from hardening before you finish dipping the cookies.
Use parchment paper: Using parchment paper on your baking sheets will make cleanup easier and prevent the cookies from sticking, saving time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It provides a similar texture and structure to the cookies.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the cookies.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener that adds a caramel-like flavor to the cookies and is a suitable substitute for granulated sugar.
light-brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, sweet flavor to the cookies and can be used as a natural alternative to brown sugar.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water): This vegan-friendly substitute provides binding properties similar to eggs in baking recipes.
molasses - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the cookies, making it a suitable substitute for molasses.
white chocolate chips - Substitute with vegan white chocolate chips: This substitute is suitable for those following a vegan diet and provides a similar creamy texture and sweetness to the cookies.
shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for shortening to add richness and flavor to the cookies.
red and green candy melts - Substitute with colored sprinkles: Colored sprinkles can be used to add a festive touch to the cookies without the need for candy melts.
Best Way to Present Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies
Elevate the cookie: Place the white chocolate-dipped ginger cookies on a bed of edible gold leaf for a touch of luxury and elegance.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Garnish the plate with fresh cranberries and a dusting of powdered sugar to add a festive touch to the presentation.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, alternating between dipped and undipped cookies for a visually appealing display.
Utilize height: Stack the cookies in a pyramid formation, drizzling the white chocolate in a cascading manner for a dramatic effect.
Add a touch of color: Garnish the plate with vibrant mint leaves and edible flowers to introduce a pop of color and freshness.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle the plate with crushed candied ginger for a delightful crunch and an additional layer of flavor.
Personalize with monogrammed designs: Use edible gold paint to delicately monogram each cookie, adding a personalized and sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Create a harmonious composition: Pair the cookies with a small dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce to complement the flavors and enhance the overall visual appeal.
Essential Tools for Making This Ginger Cookie Recipe
- Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
- Electric stand mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Paddle attachment: An attachment for an electric stand mixer used for creaming and mixing ingredients.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending and mixing ingredients together.
- Silpat or parchment paper: Used to line baking sheets to prevent cookies from sticking.
- Microwave-safe bowl: A bowl that is safe to use in the microwave for melting ingredients.
- Piping bags: Used for piping and decorating with melted candy melts.
- #4 tip: A specific piping tip used for creating decorative designs with candy melts.
Storing and Freezing Tips for White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies
- Allow the white chocolate coating to set completely before storing the cookies. This may take several hours at room temperature.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking together.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies:
- Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them come to room temperature on a wire rack. This may take about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Avoid refrigerating the cookies, as the moisture in the refrigerator can cause the white chocolate coating to become sticky or develop condensation.
- If the white chocolate coating becomes dull or develops a slight bloom after storage, you can restore the shine by melting a small amount of white chocolate and shortening and drizzling it over the cookies.
How To Reheat Leftover Ginger Cookies
To reheat leftover white chocolate dipped ginger cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and the chocolate has slightly softened. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies may become too crispy.
Another method is to use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature. Keep a close eye on the cookies to prevent the chocolate from overheating and burning.
For a quicker and more convenient option, you can reheat the cookies in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and the chocolate has softened.
If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, wrap the cookies in a damp paper towel before microwaving them for 10-15 seconds. The moisture from the paper towel will help soften the cookies without making them soggy.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 1-2 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and the chocolate has melted. The steam trapped inside the skillet will help soften the cookies while the direct heat will crisp up the exterior.
Interesting Fact About White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies
The ginger cookies in this recipe can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a convenient treat for any occasion.
Is Making These Ginger Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this white chocolate dipped ginger cookies recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients. While white chocolate chips and candy melts can be pricier, the other ingredients are commonly found in households. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The cookies are a delightful treat, earning a solid 9/10 rating for taste and presentation. With careful shopping and ingredient substitutions, this recipe can be a cost-effective addition to any household's dessert repertoire.
Are These Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The white chocolate dipped ginger cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, falls short in terms of overall healthiness. The recipe heavily relies on refined sugars, including granulated sugar, light-brown sugar, and white chocolate chips, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, the use of all-purpose flour and shortening adds to the caloric density of the cookies without providing significant nutritional benefits.
To improve the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Reduce the amount of granulated sugar and light-brown sugar used in the recipe, or replace them with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Opt for high-quality, dark chocolate instead of white chocolate chips, as dark chocolate contains more antioxidants and less sugar
- Replace the shortening with coconut oil, which is a healthier alternative that provides beneficial medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs)
- Incorporate additional spices, such as cardamom or turmeric, which offer potential health benefits and unique flavor profiles
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the white chocolate dipped ginger cookies while still maintaining their irresistible taste and texture. Remember, moderation is key when enjoying treats like these, and pairing them with a healthy, well-rounded diet is essential for overall well-being.
Editor's Opinion on This White Chocolate Ginger Cookie Recipe
The white chocolate dipped ginger cookies recipe is a delightful combination of warm spices and sweet white chocolate. The use of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile, while the addition of molasses adds depth to the cookies. The white chocolate dip adds a luxurious touch, balancing the spiciness with its creamy sweetness. The holly decoration with red and green candy melts adds a festive and visually appealing element. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for the holiday season.
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Why trust this White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its perfect balance of spices and sweetness. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm and comforting flavor profile. The use of high-quality white chocolate chips ensures a creamy and indulgent coating. The step-by-step instructions and precise measurements guarantee a successful outcome. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a memorable and delicious holiday treat.
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