1860'S Muster Day Gingerbread Cookies

Prep: 30 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 48 Cuisine: American

Festive and aromatic gingerbread cookies with warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, appealing to cookie lovers and those craving seasonal treats.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 2/3 cup molasses
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
  • 2/3 cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Heat the brown sugar, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves to the boiling point.
  2. Remove from heat, add the baking soda and pour over the butter in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Stir until the butter has melted, then stir in the egg and flour thoroughly.
  4. Knead the dough for a few minutes, then gather into a ball.
  5. Refrigerate until firm enough to roll easily, about 30 minutes.
  6. Roll on a slightly floured board and cut with fancy cookie cutters.
  7. Bake on a lightly greased cookie sheet in a preheated oven at 325°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer texture, consider reducing the baking time slightly. If you're out of molasses, dark corn syrup can be a fine substitute. To make these cookies vegan, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and plant-based butter. These cookies can be decorated with icing or enjoyed plain. Pair them with a cup of tea for a delightful treat.

Serving Suggestions

These gingerbread cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat. Serve them alongside a warm cup of chai or coffee for a comforting experience. For an extra festive touch, consider pairing them with a spread of cream cheese frosting or a fruit preserve. They also make a great addition to cookie platters with other favorites like Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, or enjoy them at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 1860'S Muster Day Gingerbread Cookies contains roughly 245 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 25g fat.

245 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.4g 1% DV
Total Fat 25.3g 32% DV
Carbs 4g 1% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 143.2mg 6% DV
Potassium 22.5mg
Cholesterol 83.6mg 28% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.1mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 11.5mg 1% DV
Iron 0.1mg 1% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To maintain a lighter cookie, consider using a blend of both flours, starting with half whole wheat and half all-purpose.

How can I make these cookies spicier?

To add more warmth, increase the amount of ginger or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to roll out, sprinkle a little extra flour on the work surface and on top of the dough. Kneading in small amounts of flour can help achieve the right consistency without compromising the flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →