Wagon Wheels
Deliciously chewy, spicy ginger molasses cookies perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, featuring warm spices and a sweet caramel glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together shortening and sugar.
- Stir{
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening. You can also substitute dark molasses with light molasses or honey if you prefer a milder flavor. If you want to enhance the spices, try adding a pinch of black pepper. Be sure to sift your flour well to avoid clumps for a smoother dough.
Serving Suggestions
Wagon Wheels are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a chilled glass of Raindrop Raspberry Iced Tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Wagon Wheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. If reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wagon Wheels contains roughly 1398 calories, with 17g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 102g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (324% of the Daily Value), iron (166% of the Daily Value), and calcium (125% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1343mg per serving (58% 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 make Wagon Wheels vegan?
Yes, you can make Wagon Wheels vegan by substituting the shortening with a plant-based butter and using a flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacer if needed. Additionally, ensure that the molasses used is vegan-friendly.
How can I make these cookies less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup and consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. You can also increase the spices slightly to compensate for the reduced sweetness.
Why are my Wagon Wheels too dry?
If your Wagon Wheels turn out too dry, it could be due to over-measuring the flour or baking them too long. Make sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly, and check them a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
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).