Ginger Creams
Ginger Creams are delightful spiced cookies featuring warm ginger and cinnamon flavors, with a rich molasses undertone. Crunchy on the outside and chewy inside, they are perfect for holiday treats or cozy gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy classic gingerbread-inspired confections with a hint of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar and shortening until smooth.
- Add eggs and molasses, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
- Pour in hot water slowly, mixing continuously until the dough is smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a shallow cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cookies are brown and the centers spring back to the touch, about 10 minutes.
- Optional: glaze with powdered sugar frosting after cooling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a mix of half shortening and half unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for margarine. You can adjust the spices according to your taste; for a spicier kick, increase the ginger slightly. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the brown sugar by up to a third without sacrificing too much flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Ginger Creams are delightful on their own but can be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. For a more festive touch, serve them alongside a fruit salad like Fruit And Cream Cheese Salad. Drizzling with a powdered sugar glaze adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Ginger Creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Creams contains roughly 266 calories, with 1g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of potassium (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 528mg per serving (23% 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 substitute the molasses in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that this will alter the taste slightly and may affect the moisture content, so adjust the dry ingredients accordingly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and the centers spring back when lightly touched. If they look too soft, give them an extra minute or two in the oven, but be careful not to overbake them.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping and baking, as it will be easier to handle when slightly softened.
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).