Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings Magic

Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday treat – Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings! They’re like a warm hug on a chilly winter day. Just imagine soft, spiced cookies filled with a creamy, dreamy buttercream that melts in your mouth. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg dances together, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma that instantly brings back memories of holiday gatherings and cozy nights by the fire.

These cookies have become a staple in my home during the festive season. I remember the first time I made them for a cookie swap. I was nervous as I pulled them out of the oven, but the moment I took a bite, I knew I had created something special. The way the soft ginger cookies embrace the rich eggnog frosting – oh wow, it’s a match made in dessert heaven! My friends couldn’t get enough, and they keep asking for the recipe every year. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, too. So, let’s dive into the magic of making these delightful treats together!

Ingredients for Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings truly delightful! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger – this is where the magic starts!
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds that warm, cozy flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – for a hint of spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – because what’s the holidays without nutmeg?
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps those cookies rise beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature – trust me, this makes all the difference in creaminess!
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed – for that rich, molasses-like flavor.
• 1 large egg, room temperature – helps bind everything together.
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature – adding extra richness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – because vanilla just makes everything better.
• 1/3 cup molasses (not blackstrap) – the star of the show for that distinct flavor.
• 1/3 cup turbinado or granulated sugar – for rolling the dough balls to add a little crunch.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (for frosting) – more deliciousness!
• 2–3 cups icing sugar, sifted – this will give you that perfect frosting texture.
• 3–4 tablespoons milk or cream – for spreading consistency in your frosting.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) – can’t forget this little boost of flavor!
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional) – if you really want to go the extra mile.

Make sure to measure accurately to get the best results. Enjoy the process of mixing and creating these delightful cookies!

How to Prepare Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Now, let’s get into the fun part – making these delicious Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings! Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a large bowl and whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. This will be your dry mixture, and it’s essential to combine these spices well to help spread that festive flavor throughout the cookies.

In another large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened butter with the packed brown sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You want it to look light and creamy, so don’t rush this step!

Next, add in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and molasses. Beat everything together until well combined. You’ll see that beautiful deep color from the molasses coming through, and trust me, it smells divine!

Now, reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined – it’s okay if there are a few flour streaks left. Be careful not to overmix, or you’ll end up with tough cookies!

Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can chill it for up to 24 hours!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough into balls – about 1.5 tablespoons each – and roll them in the turbinado or granulated sugar before placing them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. You want them just set on top but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the tray for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial, so don’t skip it!

Once your cookies are cool, you can start whipping up the scrumptious eggnog frosting. It’s all coming together beautifully, I can’t wait for you to try these!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh, let me tell you why these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings are an absolute must-bake during the holidays! Here’s what makes them so special:

• Quick Prep Time: You can whip up the dough in just about 30 minutes! That means you’ll be indulging in these scrumptious cookies before you know it.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, paired with the deep, rich sweetness of molasses creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
• Festive Appeal: These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also beautiful! The creamy eggnog frosting adds a festive touch that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and familiar ingredients, even novice bakers can create these delightful treats without any fuss.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a cookie swap, a holiday party, or just a sweet surprise for loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around!

Trust me, once you start making these cookies, you’ll find yourself reaching for them anytime the festive mood strikes. They’re just that good!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings turn out absolutely perfect, here are some expert tips I’ve gathered from years of baking these delightful treats:

Refrigerate the Dough for Maximum Flavor

Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to scoop and roll. If you can, let it chill for a full 24 hours. Trust me, the cookies will taste even better the next day!

Watch the Baking Time Closely

Baking ginger molasses cookies can be tricky. You want them just set and not overbaked, so keep an eye on them around the 8-minute mark. They might look a little underdone when you pull them out, but they’ll continue to firm up as they cool. You want that perfect soft center!

Don’t Overmix the Batter

When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten and lead to tougher cookies, which is the opposite of what you want! A few flour streaks are totally okay; your cookies will still be delicious.

Frosting Techniques for the Perfect Finish

When making the eggnog frosting, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps achieve that creamy, smooth texture. Gradually add the icing sugar and milk, adjusting as necessary to get a spreadable consistency. If you want a thicker frosting, add more icing sugar; if you prefer it thinner, just a splash of milk will do!

Assembly Tips

When you sandwich the cookies together, be generous with the frosting! About 1 tablespoon per cookie is just right, ensuring a delightful bite every time. If you want to get fancy, you can also pipe the frosting using a piping bag for a beautiful presentation!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most scrumptious Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings that everyone will adore. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in! Here are some estimated nutritional values for one cookie:

• Calories: 353
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 22g
• Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, who’s counting when you’re enjoying such festive treats? Just savor every delightful bite and share them with loved ones!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings? No problem! Here are some common queries I often get, along with my answers to help you out:

Q1: Can I substitute the molasses in this recipe?

While molasses is the star ingredient that gives these cookies their signature flavor, you can use dark corn syrup as a substitute in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different, so if you can, stick with molasses for that warm, rich sweetness!

Q2: What’s the best way to store these cookies?

Store your ginger molasses sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, but trust me, they might not last that long! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them without the frosting. Just thaw them before you frost and enjoy!

Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before scooping and baking, as it’ll be a bit firm after chilling.

Q4: How can I make the frosting thicker or thinner?

If you want a thicker frosting, simply add more icing sugar, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. For a thinner frosting, add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until it’s smooth and spreadable. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find that perfect texture!

Q5: Can I use a different frosting flavor?

Of course! While eggnog frosting is a delightful match for these cookies, you can switch it up by using cream cheese frosting or even a simple vanilla buttercream. Just adjust the flavors to your liking, and you’ll still have a delicious treat!

I hope these answers help you feel more confident in your baking adventure. Enjoy making these scrumptious cookies, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings fresh and delicious, proper storage is key! Here’s how to do it:

Once your cookies are fully assembled and frosted, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their soft texture and keeps the frosting creamy. If you’re stacking them, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together. They should stay fresh for up to a week – but I doubt they’ll last that long with how irresistible they are!

If you find yourself with leftover cookies (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), you can freeze them for longer storage. Just ensure they’re in a single layer on a baking sheet first, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, with parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking them. They can be frozen for up to three months!

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you want to freshen them up a bit, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their soft, chewy texture and make the frosting extra delightful again!

With these storage tips, you can savor every delicious bite of your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings, even days after baking. Happy baking and happy snacking!

Call to Action

I’d love to hear about your baking adventures with these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings! After you’ve tried the recipe, please leave a comment below to share your experience. Did you tweak anything? What did your family think? Your stories and feedback mean the world to me!

If you enjoyed the cookies, consider rating the recipe! It helps others find this festive treat and spread the joy of baking. And hey, don’t keep all the deliciousness to yourself! Snap a photo of your cookies and share it on social media. Tag me so I can see your beautiful creations and celebrate with you!

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Happy baking, friends! Let’s keep the holiday spirit alive one cookie at a time!

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