Aunt Gladys'S Gingersnaps

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Golden, spicy gingersnaps with a crisp exterior and chewy center, perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave warm, aromatic cookies with a hint of ginger and cloves.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup shortening
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 4 tablespoons molasses
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons soda
  • 1 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 teaspoon ginger

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
  2. Roll dough into medium-sized balls, dip tops in sugar, and place on a cookie sheet.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the mix or substituting half the molasses with honey. If you prefer a softer texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling. Ensure your shortening is at room temperature for easier mixing, and experiment with different sugars for dipping to find your favorite flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These gingersnaps are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with the Gold 'N Spice Chiffon Cake for a festive dessert platter. For an extra treat, try crumbling them over ice cream or yogurt for a unique flavor twist.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover gingersnaps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their crispness. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a resealable bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their crunch.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Gladys'S Gingersnaps contains roughly 739 calories, with 5g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (46% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

739 kcal 37% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.8g 10% DV
Total Fat 18.5g 24% DV
Carbs 144.9g 53% DV
Fiber 3.5g 12% DV
Sugar 89.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 302.9mg 13% DV
Potassium 2173.2mg 46% DV
Cholesterol 116.6mg 39% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 29.7mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 22mg 24% DV
Calcium 382.4mg 29% DV
Iron 7.2mg 40% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
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 use butter instead of shortening?

Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening in this recipe. However, the texture may be slightly different; butter will yield a richer flavor but can result in a softer cookie. Make sure to chill the dough if you use butter to help maintain the shape while baking.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to roll into balls, you can add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up, making it easier to handle.

How do I know when the gingersnaps are done baking?

The gingersnaps are done when they are lightly browned around the edges and have a slightly firm surface. They may look a bit soft in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

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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