Aunt Marie'S Gingersnaps
Aunt Marie's Gingersnaps are crisp, spicy cookies with a rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful treat for anyone who loves warm spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add molasses, then the egg, and beat well.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and beat until smooth.
- Roll the dough into small balls, dip each in sugar.
- Place the balls 2 inches apart on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350° to 375°F for 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening. You can also experiment with different sugars, like brown sugar for a richer flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of ginger or cloves. Make sure to roll the dough balls in sugar just before baking for a nice sweetness on the outside.
Serving Suggestions
These gingersnaps pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful dessert, serve them alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of pumpkin spice ice cream. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters or as a sweet treat during festive gatherings, complementing dishes like Turkey With Pineapple.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover gingersnaps, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Marie'S Gingersnaps contains roughly 1337 calories, with 5g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 975mg per serving (42% 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 make these gingersnaps gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works for baking. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. The flavor profile should remain similar, but you may need to adjust baking times slightly based on the blend you use.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, though they will change the flavor slightly. For a closer match, mix dark corn syrup with a little brown sugar to mimic the richness of molasses.
How can I make these cookies softer?
To achieve softer gingersnaps, remove them from the oven just as the edges start to set while the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool. You can also reduce the baking time by a minute or two for a chewier texture.
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).