Grandma'S Gingersnaps
Grandma's Gingersnaps are classic, crunchy cookies with warm ginger and cinnamon flavors, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Their crisp texture and spicy-sweet taste make them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar.
- Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Roll teaspoonfuls of dough into balls.
- Dip one side of each ball in sugar and place them sugar side up on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly brown and crinkly.
- Let cookies cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter. To enhance the spice, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg. Ensure your dough balls are uniform in size for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these gingersnaps with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a delightful snack. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside Key Lemon Pie or Chocolate Banana Cake during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gingersnaps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Gingersnaps contains roughly 79 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 make these gingersnaps gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. The cookies may be slightly softer but will still be deliciously spiced.
What if I want my gingersnaps softer?
To achieve softer gingersnaps, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes. You can also slightly increase the amount of molasses for a chewier texture. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch to the gingersnaps. You could also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you add more ingredients.
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).