Aunt Beaut'S Ginger Cakes(Cookies)

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 144 Cuisine: American

Aunt Beaut's Ginger Cakes are spicy, chewy cookies with rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea or milk.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pint lard
  • 1 1/2 pint sorghum or dark molasses
  • 3 tablespoons soda
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 pint buttermilk
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 3 tablespoons ginger
  • 8 to 10 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Mix the sorghum or dark molasses with the soda.
  2. Add the sugar, lard, eggs, and buttermilk to the mixture.
  3. Gradually add enough flour to make a soft dough.
  4. Put the dough in the refrigerator for a while to chill.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured board to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  6. Cut into cookie shapes and place on a baking sheet.
  7. Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
  8. Cool the cookies and store in a tightly closed container.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using half lard and half butter. If you don't have sorghum, dark molasses can be a great substitute, adding a rich flavor. Adjust the amount of ginger to your taste; you can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note. Ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Aunt Beaut's Ginger Cakes alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of Tangy Hollandaise Sauce for a unique twist. These cookies make a great addition to any dessert platter, especially during the holidays.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cooled ginger cakes 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 bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Beaut'S Ginger Cakes(Cookies) contains roughly 2323 calories, with 14g protein, 292g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1865mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).

2323 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.7g 27% DV
Total Fat 125.2g 100% DV
Carbs 292.3g 100% DV
Fiber 6.7g 24% DV
Sugar 205.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1865.1mg 81% DV
Potassium 453.8mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 158.9mg 53% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 74.7mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 4.5mcg 22% DV
Calcium 320.4mg 25% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains 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 substitute the lard in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lard with unsalted butter or vegetable shortening if you prefer a different flavor or texture. Keep in mind that butter will add a rich taste, while shortening may create a slightly different consistency in the cookies.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

You can also check for a golden-brown color on the edges of the cookies.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a short time before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.

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).

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