Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a deliciously spiced treat, this cookie recipe is perfect for you. Bursting with flavor from ginger, cloves, and a hint of pepper, these cookies will warm your heart and home. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
¾ cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
⅓ cup molasses
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon ground pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup coarse sugar
Prep Time
1 hour (or overnight for better flavor)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: About 24 cookies
Enjoy the delightful process of making these spiced cookies with your loved ones, and be ready for the amazing aroma that will fill your kitchen. They’re not only easy to make but also a delightful treat to share!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and sugar for 3 minutes using a stand or handheld mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground pepper, and salt, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the flour is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Refrigerate the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least an hour or overnight to firm it up.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Scoop the chilled dough using a regular cookie scoop or ice cream scoop. Roll each scoop into a ball and then roll each ball in coarse sugar to coat. Place the coated balls on the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, checking for doneness at the 10-minute mark. If needed, add an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure they are baked through but still soft in the center.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!
Notes
Note 1: Butter Temperature
Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugars.
Note 2: Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough is essential for better flavor development and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Note 3: Storage
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for optimal freshness.
Note 4: Variations
Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for a different flavor twist.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugars
Creaming is the process of beating softened butter with sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air into the dough, helping to create a light texture in the cookies.
Incorporating Eggs
Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. This method ensures better emulsification, leading to a more cohesive dough.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet mixture. Whisking ensures even distribution of the baking soda and spices, preventing clumps and promoting even baking.
Chilling the Dough
Refrigerating the dough allows the butter to firm up, which will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking. It also enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together.
Scooping and Rolling Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop helps to create uniform cookie shapes and sizes. Rolling the dough balls in coarse sugar before baking adds an attractive texture and sweetness to the finished cookies.
Baking and Cooling
Bake in a preheated oven to ensure even baking, checking for doneness at the specified time. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet to set before transferring them to a wire rack.
FAQ
Can I substitute butter with margarine?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
What can I use instead of molasses?
You can substitute molasses with honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar mixed with a little water, though the flavor will be different.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be set around the edges and may still look slightly underbaked in the center. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, the cookie dough can be frozen. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then store in an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What if I don’t have coarse sugar?
If coarse sugar isn’t available, regular granulated sugar can be used as a substitute, but it won’t provide the same decorative finish.
Conclusion
These scrumptious cookies combine the rich flavors of brown sugar, molasses, and warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion. The soft and chewy texture pairs well with the sweetness of the coarse sugar coating, ensuring a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, these cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your gatherings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spiced Pumpkin Cookies
Add 1 cup of pureed pumpkin to the batter for a moist and flavorful twist on the original recipe. Enhance the spices with cinnamon and nutmeg for an autumn-inspired delight.
Chocolate Chip Ginger Cookies
Mix in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey contrast to the spices. The combination of ginger and chocolate creates a unique and delicious flavor.
Molasses Oatmeal Cookies
Incorporate 1 cup of rolled oats into the dough for added texture and heartiness. This variation makes for a chewier and more filling treat.
Cranberry Flaxseed Cookies
Add ½ cup of dried cranberries and 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed for a fruity and nutritious boost. The tartness of cranberries balances the sweetness of the cookies wonderfully.
Maple Pecan Cookies
Substitute the molasses with maple syrup and fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans. This will impart a caramel-like flavor and a delightful crunch, making for a great treat any time of year.
