Ginger Bell Cookies
Ginger Bell Cookies are spiced, chewy treats with warm ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the beaten egg and molasses until well combined.
- Sift and measure the flour.
- Sift the flour again with the cinnamon, ginger, ground cloves, and salt.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well blended.
- Mix until the dough is smooth and uniform.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer texture, consider reducing the flour slightly or adding a tablespoon of milk. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, though it may change the flavor slightly. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of ginger or cinnamon. These Ginger Bell Cookies can also be rolled in sugar before baking for added sweetness, similar to the approach in Molasses Jar-Filler Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Ginger Bell Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat with tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For added flair, consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or a slice of Bits Of Brickle Cake to create a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Bell Cookies contains roughly 654 calories, with 5g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (46% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer flavor. Brown sugar will also add moisture to the cookies, making them chewier. Just keep in mind that it may darken the color of the cookies slightly.
What can I do if I don't have ground cloves?
If you don't have ground cloves, you can either omit them or substitute with an equal amount of allspice or nutmeg. These spices will provide a similar warm flavor profile, though the taste will vary slightly.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), and use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil in place of traditional shortening. This will keep the cookies flavorful while adhering to a vegan diet.
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).