Peggy'S Ginger Cookies
Peggy's Ginger Cookies are spicy, sweet treats with warm ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, perfect for holiday gifting or a cozy snack with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar until well blended.
- Add the molasses and egg, and beat well.
- Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, salt, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- Roll teaspoonfuls of dough in sugar to coat.
- Place the coated dough on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for 8 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, reduce the baking time slightly, checking for doneness around 7 minutes. You can substitute coconut oil for shortening for a different flavor profile. If you don't have unsulfured molasses, light brown sugar can work as a substitute, but it will alter the taste slightly. For extra spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
These ginger cookies are delightful on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Claudia Berrier's Pumpkin Pie during holiday gatherings. They also make a great addition to a cookie platter for parties or as gifts during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ginger cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their softness without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Ginger Cookies contains roughly 399 calories, with 5g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1998mg per serving (87% 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 different spices in this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the spice blend to your liking. For example, adding nutmeg or cardamom can give a unique twist to the flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantity so that it doesn't overwhelm the ginger's natural taste.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to roll, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can lightly dust your hands and the surface with flour while rolling the dough.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free ginger cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the cookie structure. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious treat without gluten.
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).