Introduction
The holiday season is a time for warmth, joy, and, of course, scrumptious cookies! These Ginger Molasses Christmas Cookies are the perfect treat to fill your home with the enchanting aroma of spices and sweetness. With their soft, chewy texture and a delightful blend of warming spices, they are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Let’s dive into how to whip up a batch of these festive delights!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional granulated sugar for rolling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). For easier cleanup, line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set this fragrant mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and inviting.
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Now for the fun part! Shape the dough into 1-inch balls, rolling each one in granulated sugar to create a sparkling coat before placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the edges display a lovely slight crack. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen fills with their spicy fragrance.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps them maintain their perfect chewy texture.
Notes or Tips
For an extra festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking. This contrast enhances the sweet spice flavors beautifully. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they can go from perfectly chewy to overdone in just a minute!
Cooking Techniques
When mixing your cookie dough, remember that beating the butter and sugar until fluffy is key to achieving that light texture we all love. Also, be gentle when combining the dry and wet ingredients. Mixing just until everything is incorporated keeps your cookies nice and soft.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, roll it into balls, and freeze them. Just bake them straight from the freezer, extending the baking time by a couple of minutes.
How do I store the cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage!
Conclusion
These Ginger Molasses Christmas Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a symbol of comfort and holiday cheer. Share them with family and friends, or enjoy them by the fire with a warm cup of tea. No matter how you savor them, they’re sure to become a beloved part of your holiday celebrations. Happy baking!