Aunt Jo'S Ginger Cookies
Aunt Jo's Ginger Cookies are spicy, sweet treats with rich molasses and warming ginger flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, ginger) and set aside.
- Mix the shortening with the brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg to the mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Add the dry ingredients to the liquid mixture and blend well.
- Divide the dough into 2 (1 1/2-inch) logs, wrap each in wax paper, and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the chilled logs into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Place the slices on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
- Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to prevent cookies from becoming too crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a more intense flavor, add an extra teaspoon of ginger. Ensure your molasses is fresh for the best taste, and you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. For ease, consider making these cookies ahead of time and slicing them from logs when you're ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
These ginger cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a bowl of Tropical Sweet Potatoes for contrasting flavors. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Consider gifting them during the holidays for a warm, homemade treat.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the ginger cookies in an airtight container. To keep them soft, add a slice of bread inside the container; this will maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the sliced dough logs wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, simply slice and bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Jo'S Ginger Cookies contains roughly 1037 calories, with 7g protein, 244g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2583mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar or coconut sugar for the brown sugar, though the flavor and moisture level may vary slightly. Brown sugar adds depth and moisture, so if using granulated, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic the taste.
How can I make these cookies more chewy?
To achieve a chewier texture, try reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg yolk to the dough. This will enhance the moisture content, resulting in a softer, chewier cookie. Also, avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can make these ginger cookies vegan by substituting the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce. Additionally, replace the shortening with a plant-based butter or oil for a completely vegan-friendly treat.
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).