Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

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Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, capturing the essence of the holidays in every bite. These cookies are not just delightful to taste; they evoke memories of cozy winter nights, laughter with family, and festive gatherings. They are soft yet slightly chewy, with a rich, golden molasses flavor that dances with aromatic spices. Topped with a luscious eggnog frosting, every sandwich cookie is a burst of holiday comfort that you’ll want to share with everyone. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for anyone looking to add a special touch to their holiday cookie plate. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explore how to create these magical treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies. For starters, the preparation is straightforward, making it a great choice even for novice bakers. With minimal ingredients, you’ll find that most are staples in your kitchen. The cookies themselves are a delightful crowd-pleaser, appealing to both children and adults alike—who can resist the charming combination of ginger and molasses? Plus, the addition of the creamy eggnog frosting makes each bite irresistibly indulgent. These cookies not only fill your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas but also provide the joy of sharing a slice of holiday cheer through food.

Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, gather the following aromatic and comforting ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the perfect base for soft, chewy cookies.
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger – Infuses warm spiciness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a fragrant sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise to a lovely thickness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – Brings creaminess and richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens while ensuring a tender texture.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients for a sturdy dough.
• 1/4 cup molasses – Lends a deep, robust flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a delightful aroma.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting) – Creates a smooth, creamy base.
• 2 to 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1/4 cup eggnog – Infuses seasonal flavor into the frosting.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) – Adds an optional layer of warmth.
• Pinch of ground cloves or allspice (optional) – Provides a deeper flavor profile.
• Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Adds a crunchy texture.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional) – For chocolate enthusiasts, an optional rich addition.
• Chocolate drizzle (optional) – A decadent topping for added flair.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies is a breeze with the following clear steps:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This mixture will be the aromatic foundation of your cookie dough.

2. Make the Cookie Base: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air for a tender cookie.

3. Mix in the Egg and Molasses: Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Blend well until everything is well incorporated and smooth.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix until a soft dough forms, ensuring not to over-mix for the best texture.

5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

6. Roll and Cut Out Cookies: Once chilled, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Use your favorite cookie cutter or simply cut out shapes that suit your holiday spirit.

7. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie shapes on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. They should be slightly firm on the edges but soft in the center.

8. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack, ensuring they don’t over-bake while cooling.

9. Prepare the Eggnog Frosting: For the frosting, beat the remaining softened butter with the sifted powdered sugar until creamy. Gradually add eggnog, mixing until smooth. You can adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.

10. Assemble the Sandwich Cookies: Spread frosting on the bottom of one cookie and top it with another to make a cookie sandwich. Let the frosted cookies set before serving, allowing the frosting to firm up.

Tips & Tricks

• Chill Your Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! This not only makes the dough easier to handle but also leads to better-shaped cookies that don’t spread too much.
• Variations: Feel free to switch up the spices or add citrus zest for a fresh twist. Lemon or orange zest can add a delightful brightness to the cookies.
• Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a splash more eggnog; if it’s too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar until you achieve the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering, winter parties, or simply as an afternoon treat with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great homemade gift wrapped nicely in festive packaging. Consider pairing them with a steaming mug of spiced chai or a rich hot chocolate for an indulgent experience.

Nutritional Information

These cookies are a delightful treat, with each sandwich containing approximately 150 calories. They offer a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and a touch of protein, making them an enjoyable dessert to savor in moderation. While they should be a rare indulgence during the holiday season, they can certainly bring joy to your celebrations.

Storing Tips & Variations

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the un-frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and frost as desired.

Conclusion

These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a holiday essential that everyone should try at least once. The blend ofspices and the creamy frosting create a uniquely comforting treat that will have your family and friends raving. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this baking adventure. Don’t forget to share your experience and the joy these cookies bring to your holiday celebrations!

FAQs

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
   Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor and moister texture in your cookies.

2. Can I skip the frosting?
   Absolutely! These cookies are delicious on their own, but the eggnog frosting adds a festive touch.

3. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
   The edges should look set and lightly golden, while the centers may still be soft. They will firm up as they cool.

4. Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie dough?
   Yes! Chocolate chips can complement the spices wonderfully; just fold them in after combining the wet and dry ingredients.

5. What can I substitute for molasses?
   You can use honey or dark corn syrup in a pinch, but the flavor will differ. If you use these substitutes, the cookies may lack the deep, rich taste that molasses provides.

Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Print Recipe

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Delightful holiday cookies with a blend of ginger and molasses, topped with creamy eggnog frosting.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 70 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 2 to 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/4 cup eggnog
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of ground cloves or allspice (optional)
• Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional)
• Chocolate drizzle (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Blend well until smooth.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until a soft dough forms.
5. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
6. Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface and cut out shapes.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookie shapes for 8 to 10 minutes.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and cool on a wire rack.
9. For the frosting, beat the remaining softened butter with the sifted powdered sugar until creamy. Gradually add eggnog and mix until smooth.
10. Spread frosting on the bottom of one cookie and top it with another to make a sandwich.

Notes

Chill your dough for better handling and cookie shape. Adjust frosting consistency by adding more eggnog or powdered sugar as needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich cookie
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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