Chewy Ginger Cookies
Chewy ginger cookies offer warm spices and rich molasses flavor, with a soft yet chewy texture, perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting treat any time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and shortening together until well blended.
- Add egg and molasses, and mix thoroughly.
- Sift together cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, baking soda, and flour, then gradually add to the mixture.
- Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls, then roll in sugar.
- Place the balls on a greased cookie sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. You can also substitute half of the shortening with butter for a richer taste. If you prefer a softer cookie, slightly underbake them and let them sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring. Make sure to roll the dough balls in sugar before baking for that classic crunchy exterior.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy ginger cookies are perfect for the holiday season and pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also make a delightful gift, beautifully packaged in a jar, making them a great addition to your holiday treats like Grandma Francis 5 Cup Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring they stay chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Ginger Cookies contains roughly 169 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 642mg per serving (28% 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 fresh ginger instead of ground ginger in this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh ginger, but be sure to adjust the quantity since fresh ginger is more potent. Use about 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger in place of the ground ginger for a zesty kick.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to roll, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can lightly flour your hands while rolling the dough into balls.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. You may need to experiment with the baking time, as gluten-free flours can behave differently.
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).