Aunt Rose'S Ginger Cookies

Prep: 30 min Cook: 12 min Serves: 48 Cuisine: American

Aromatic ginger cookies with warm spices and rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with friends and family.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup shortening
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 2 1/2 cups sifted flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon cloves

Instructions

  1. Cream shortening, brown sugar, and egg until well combined.
  2. Add molasses and beat well.
  3. Sift dry ingredients (flour, salt, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda) and add to the mixture.
  4. Chill the dough thoroughly.
  5. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls.
  6. Roll the balls in sugar.
  7. Place the cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
  8. Put a drop of water on each cookie.
  9. Bake at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some grated fresh ginger to the dough. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. To ensure a crisper cookie, bake them a minute or two longer. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Serving Suggestions

These ginger cookies are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with Breakfast Custard for a satisfying brunch. Serve them alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, consider presenting them on a platter with other baked goods, such as Mammaw's Coconut Pie, during holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore their original texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Rose'S Ginger Cookies contains roughly 68 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.

68 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 1.9g 2% DV
Carbs 11.8g 4% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 1.4g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 146.5mg 6% DV
Potassium 60.2mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 11.9mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 23.9mg 2% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal 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 a different type of sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly. Brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor, while granulated sugar will yield a crisper cookie.

What can I use if I don't have molasses?

If you don't have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor and sweetness of the cookies, so adjust accordingly.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these ginger cookies vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil or a vegan shortening instead of regular shortening. They will still turn out delicious!

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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