Old Fashioned Ginger Cookies(Soft)
Soft and spicy ginger cookies with rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday treats or cozy afternoons, appealing to those who love warm, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar together in a mixing bowl. Add the egg and beat until well combined.
- Stir in the molasses.
- Dissolve the baking soda in hot water and add to the mixture.
- Gradually add the flour, cinnamon, and ginger, mixing well after each addition.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes until cookies are golden and soft.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. For a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon to 2 tablespoons. Remember to space the cookies adequately to allow for spreading.
Serving Suggestions
These soft ginger cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. For an extra touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumble them over yogurt. They also make a charming addition to a holiday cookie platter or as a sweet treat during a cozy gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ginger cookies 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 bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Ginger Cookies(Soft) contains roughly 237 calories, with 1g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of potassium (17% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% 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 butter instead of shortening in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening in equal amounts. Just be aware that using butter may result in a slightly different texture—cookies may spread more and be a bit crisper. Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing results.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up and make it easier to scoop.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough in individual portions and bake fresh cookies whenever you like. Just thaw the dough in the refrigerator before baking.
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).