Cookie Jar Gingersnaps
Gingersnaps are crisp, spicy cookies with a warm ginger and cinnamon flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday treats. Their aromatic aroma and chewy centers make them a delightful choice for those who enjoy bold spices and classic cookie textures. An easy, flavorful addition to any cookie platter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure sifted flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt into a sifter.
- Sift 2 or 3 times to combine thoroughly.
- Cream shortening in a medium-sized bowl.
- Gradually add sugar, creaming well after each addition.
- Beat in eggs and molasses until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients, mixing well to combine.
- Form teaspoons of dough into balls.
- Roll balls in sugar, covering the entire surface.
- Place on ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until tops are lightly browned.
- Remove from pans and cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg along with the ginger and cinnamon. If you're short on shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Ensure your molasses is at room temperature for easier mixing. For a chewier texture, slightly underbake the cookies, keeping an eye on them as they cool on the sheet.
Serving Suggestions
These gingersnaps make a delightful treat on their own, but they also pair beautifully with Homemade Ice Milk for a refreshing dessert. Consider serving them alongside a cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. For a festive touch, try decorating them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water.
Storage & Reheating
Store your gingersnaps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; place in a freezer-safe bag or container. To enjoy them warm, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cookie Jar Gingersnaps contains roughly 930 calories, with 12g protein, 177g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and potassium (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2435mg per serving (106% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, the cookies may be denser, so you might want to reduce the amount slightly or add a bit more liquid to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make these cookies spicier?
To enhance the spiciness of your gingersnaps, increase the amount of ginger to 2 tablespoons or add a teaspoon of ground black pepper. This will give your cookies a nice kick and complement the sweetness.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is excessively sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, dust your hands with a bit of flour when forming the balls to prevent sticking.
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).