Helen'S Ginger Creams

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Helen's Ginger Creams are flavorful ginger-spiced cookies with a rich molasses taste, perfect for those who enjoy warm, spicy treats with a sweet frosting touch.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ginger
  • 3 1/2 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cream sugar and shortening; add beaten eggs and mix well.
  2. Add molasses and boiling water to which baking soda has been added.
  3. Sift dry ingredients and add to the mixture; mix well.
  4. Pour batter into two large cookie sheets.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes at 375°F.
  6. Frost with powdered sugar icing while warm.
  7. Cut into desired sizes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening instead of all shortening. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to increase the ginger or add a pinch of nutmeg. For a gluten-free alternative, try using a gluten-free flour blend. Always ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise.

Serving Suggestions

These ginger creams are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Mama'S Jello Salad for a colorful dessert spread. Drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or place them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Helen'S Ginger Creams contains roughly 146 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.

146 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 5.5g 7% DV
Carbs 23.2g 8% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 7.6g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 205.8mg 9% DV
Potassium 253.9mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 25.8mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.7mg 4% DV
Calcium 56.7mg 4% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes, you can use fresh ginger, but you'll need to adjust the quantity. Generally, use about one tablespoon of freshly grated ginger for every teaspoon of ground ginger. Just be aware that fresh ginger has a different flavor profile and moisture content.

What can I substitute for molasses if I don't have any?

If you don't have molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different. Brown sugar mixed with a bit of water can also mimic the consistency and sweetness of molasses.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil instead of regular shortening. Ensure the powdered sugar used for icing is also vegan-friendly.

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).

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