Spiced Gingersnap Cookies
These Spiced Gingersnap Cookies are the perfect blend of warmth and sweetness, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. With a delightful combination of spices including ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these cookies offer a perfect snap that's sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. The rich flavor of molasses combined with a sugar-coated exterior makes each cookie not only visually appealing but also a burst of flavor in your mouth. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home, these cookies can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or shared with friends and family. Get ready to warm your kitchen with the heavenly aroma of baking gingersnaps!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Crisco (shortening)
3/4 cup (room temperature)
Egg
1 (large, room temperature)
Flour
2 cups (all-purpose)
Baking Soda
2 teaspoons (sifted)
Ground Ginger
1 teaspoon (ground)
Sugar
1 cup (granulated, for dough and additional for rolling)
Molasses
1/4 cup (unsulfured)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (fine)
Ground Cinnamon
1 teaspoon (ground)
Ground Cloves
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
In a mixing bowl, cream together the Crisco (or your preferred shortening) and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3
Add the egg to the mixture and beat until well combined.
4
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, ginger, salt, cinnamon, and ground cloves to ensure even distribution of spices.
5
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Then mix in the molasses.
6
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm.
7
Once chilled, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing on the prepared baking sheet.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops have a slightly cracked appearance.
9
Allow the gingersnaps to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spiced Gingersnap Cookies?
Spiced Gingersnap Cookies are a traditional treat known for their warm spice profile, characteristic snap, and sugar-coated exterior.
What are the primary spices used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a flavorful blend of ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.
What gives these cookies their unique flavor?
The rich flavor comes from the combination of molasses and a specific mix of warm spices like ginger and cloves.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How long do these cookies need to bake?
They should be baked for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are set.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Yes, the dough should be refrigerated for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
What type of fat is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of Crisco or your preferred shortening at room temperature.
What kind of molasses is best for these cookies?
Unsulfured molasses is recommended for the best flavor.
How large should I make the dough balls?
The dough should be rolled into 1-inch balls.
Should I coat the cookies in sugar?
Yes, roll each dough ball in granulated sugar before placing it on the baking sheet.
How do I know when the gingersnaps are done baking?
The edges will be set and the tops will have a slightly cracked appearance.
What type of flour is required?
The recipe uses 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
Should I use a specific size of egg?
A large egg at room temperature is recommended for this recipe.
What is the role of baking soda in this recipe?
Baking soda acts as a leavening agent and helps create the characteristic cracked tops.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
How do I properly cool the cookies?
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Can I use butter instead of shortening?
While the recipe specifies shortening for the best 'snap', butter can be substituted, though it may change the texture.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients including spices and leavening agents.
Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, sifting the flour, baking soda, and spices ensures an even distribution of the ingredients.
What is the texture of these cookies?
These cookies have a firm, snappy texture with a slightly soft center and a crunchy sugar coating.
Are these cookies suitable for holiday gatherings?
Absolutely, their warm spice profile makes them a classic choice for holiday treats and gift-giving.
What should I do if my dough is too soft to roll?
Ensure you have chilled the dough for at least the recommended hour; additional chilling time can help if needed.
Why do the cookies have a cracked top?
The combination of molasses, sugar, and baking soda causes the surface to dry and crack during the baking process.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for several hours or overnight before rolling and baking.
How much ginger is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of ground ginger.
What kind of salt should I use?
Fine salt is recommended to ensure it dissolves evenly into the dough.
How much sugar is needed for the dough?
One cup of granulated sugar is used for the dough, plus extra for rolling the balls.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size depends on the final count of 1-inch cookies produced, typically around 2-3 dozen.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts?
While the traditional recipe doesn't include them, you could add finely chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.
Why is the aroma of these cookies significant?
The mixture of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a heavenly, warming aroma that fills the kitchen during baking.