Ginger Drop Cookies
Ginger Drop Cookies are warmly spiced treats with rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, offering a soft texture and delightful ginger kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar together.
- Add the egg and beat well.
- Stir in the molasses.
- Dissolve the baking soda in 1 cup hot water.
- Add alternately with salt, ginger, and flour to the egg mixture.
- Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes.
- Frost with confectioners sugar icing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening. If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, increase the ginger to 1.5 teaspoons. Using fresh ginger instead of ground can add a nice zing. Be sure to not overmix once you add the flour to keep the cookies tender. Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful Ginger Drop Cookies alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also pair wonderfully with creamy ice cream for a dessert twist. For a festive touch, consider decorating with a sprinkle of cinnamon or serving with a side of warm apple cider. They make a great addition to holiday cookie platters, especially alongside items like Pineapple Cranberry Squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you'd like to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their softness and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Drop Cookies contains roughly 454 calories, with 4g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (26% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 a different type of sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use a granulated sugar alternative like coconut sugar or a stevia blend if you prefer a lower glycemic index. Keep in mind that some alternatives may slightly alter the texture and taste.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up for easier handling.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough in portioned balls and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh cookies.
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).