Name: Ginger Molasses Cookies: Soft, Spicy Bliss for the Holidays
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened) (Margarine works for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (For a deeper flavor, substitute with brown sugar.); 0.5 cup Molasses (Consider using blackstrap molasses for a bolder taste.); 1 large Egg (A vegan option can use flaxseed meal mixed with water.); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier choice.); 2 teaspoons Baking Soda (Ensure it's fresh for the best rise.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Freshly ground spices amplify flavor intensity.); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger; 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.); 0.5 cup Eggnog (Spiked eggnog offers an adult twist.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Using pure extract gives the best results.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Adjust quantity based on desired consistency.)

The aroma of baking cookies can transport you to cherished holiday gatherings, where laughter and sweet treats fill the air. These Ginger Molasses Cookies with Eggnog Buttercream capture that festive magic, combining spicy ginger and rich molasses with a creamy, decadent frosting that makes them a true delight. Perfect for impressing family, these cookies not only boast quick prep time but also offer a fun twist on traditional flavors, ensuring they’ll be a hit at any Christmas celebration. Whether you dollop them atop a warm cookie or savor them on their own, one bite transports you to the heart of the season. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the warmth of these delightful cookies?

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The delightful combination of spicy ginger and sweet molasses creates an unforgettable taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Festive Frosting: Topped with rich eggnog buttercream, these cookies take holiday celebrations to the next level, adding a creamy twist that is simply irresistible.

Quick to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time, making your holiday baking stress-free.

Versatile Delight: Whether served alone or as part of a beautiful dessert platter with other treats like Chocolate Chip Cookies, they are sure to steal the show.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet gift, these cookies create happy memories with every bite. Don’t miss the chance to share this festive treat!

Ginger Molasses Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter (Softened) – Provides richness and moisture for the cookies; margarine works for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to a crisp outer layer; for a deeper flavor, substitute with brown sugar.
• Molasses – Adds a distinct flavor and dark color; consider using blackstrap molasses for a bolder taste.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients, ensuring cookies hold together; a vegan option can use flaxseed meal mixed with water.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of the cookies; you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier choice, but expect a change in texture.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Ground Cinnamon, Cloves, Ginger, Nutmeg – These warm spices add depth and holiday cheer; freshly ground spices amplify flavor intensity.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

For the Eggnog Buttercream
• Eggnog – Provides the festive flavor for the buttercream; spiked eggnog offers an adult twist.
• Vanilla Extract – Introduces a rich aroma that rounds out flavors; using pure extract gives the best results.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the buttercream and ensures smooth texture; adjust the quantity based on your desired consistency.

Get ready to create your own delicious Ginger Molasses Cookies with this delightful lineup of ingredients that promise a taste of holiday magic!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ginger Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. This step ensures the dry ingredients are well-blended and free of lumps. Make sure to set the bowl aside as you proceed to the next steps for your delightful Ginger Molasses Cookies.

Step 2: Cream Ingredients
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed for about 3 minutes. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy, showcasing its pale color. This creamy base is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
With the mixer running on low speed, gradually add in the large egg and molasses. Mix until the batter is well combined and smooth, ensuring no streaks remain. This step captures the rich, sweet flavors that will define your Ginger Molasses Cookies, creating a beautiful blend.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Carefully fold the prepared dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix as this can lead to tougher cookies. You’ll notice the dough becoming thicker and more fragrant, perfect for a holiday treat.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough enhances the flavors and makes it easier to handle when forming cookies. This is a crucial step for achieving the soft, chewy texture in your Ginger Molasses Cookies.

Step 6: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cookies will start baking immediately once they hit the oven, contributing to their lovely rise and crackle. A well-preheated oven is key for those delightful Ginger Molasses Cookies!

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, scoop the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls using your hands. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until completely coated. This adds a beautiful sugary exterior that will create a delightful crackle on top of your cookies as they bake.

Step 8: Bake
Place the sugar-coated cookie balls on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops crack and cookies appear soft but set. You want them to remain chewy inside, promising a delightful bite of your Ginger Molasses Cookies.

Step 9: Cool Cookies
Once baked, gently transfer the cookies to a wire rack using a spatula to cool completely. Allowing them to cool is essential before frosting, ensuring your Eggnog Buttercream will remain intact and not melt. The cookies will further develop their wonderful texture during this cooling phase.

Step 10: Make Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar, mixing well between additions. Finally, mix in vanilla extract, nutmeg, and eggnog until smooth and creamy. This luscious buttercream will bring a festive sweetness to your Ginger Molasses Cookies, enhancing their holiday charm.

Step 11: Assemble
Once the cookies have cooled completely, take a cookie and spread a generous amount of the eggnog buttercream on its flat side. Top it with another cookie to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are frosted, transforming them into delightful ginger delights perfect for sharing.

Ginger Molasses Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these cookies uniquely yours, enhancing their flavors and textures in delightful ways!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of eggnog for the buttercream, creating a dairy-free alternative that’s still delicious.
Spicy Twist: Experiment by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a delightful kick that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
Chocolatey Delight: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the cookie dough for an indulgent chocolatey twist that’s hard to resist.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and a nutty flavor that complements the ginger and molasses.
Fruitful Addition: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a fruity burst, adding a chewiness that enhances each bite.
Cardamom Spice: Swap ground ginger with cardamom for a fragrant flavor twist; it offers a lovely depth and warmth perfect for holiday cheer.
Frosting Variation: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or maple in the buttercream to give a whole new dimension to your frosting.
Gingerbread Sandwiches: For a different approach, roll out the dough, cut shapes, and sandwich with buttercream between two cookies, just like classic gingerbread men!

With these variations, you can turn your festive treats into something special. Try serving them with a warm glass of spiced apple cider or as part of a dessert platter alongside a few Lava Brownie Cookies for a heartwarming holiday spread!

Expert Tips for Ginger Molasses Cookies

Chill the Dough: Ensure to chill the dough for at least 1 hour. This not only enhances flavor but also helps prevent cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined for a tender bite.
Sugar Coating: Don’t skip the step of rolling the cookie balls in granulated sugar. This creates the beautiful crackle on top and adds a sweet touch to each bite.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool entirely on a wire rack before applying the buttercream. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its creamy texture.
Spice Matters: For even more depth, consider using freshly ground spices. They can elevate the flavor profile of your Ginger Molasses Cookies to new heights!

Make Ahead Options

These Ginger Molasses Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the Eggnog Buttercream ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, roll the chilled dough into balls and proceed with baking. Just remember to allow the cookies to cool completely before spreading the frosting to prevent it from melting. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy delicious cookies that are just as delightful but save valuable time during busy holiday preparations!

What to Serve with Ginger Molasses Cookies with Eggnog Buttercream

Indulging in a delightful treat like these cookies can be a special experience that calls for complementary flavors and textures to create a complete festive spread.

Eggnog: The traditional holiday drink perfectly complements the flavors in the cookies, enhancing the eggnog buttercream’s richness.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery, smooth texture and savory flavor create a pleasing contrast to the cookies’ sweetness and spice.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage infusion of spices mirrors the cookies’ flavors, deepening the festive ambiance during holiday gatherings.
Pumpkin Pie: Offering a rich and creamy texture, pumpkin pie pairs wonderfully with the ginger spices, extending the seasonal experience on your dessert table.
Dark Chocolate Bark: The bitterness of dark chocolate balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating an inviting flavor harmony that delights the palate.
Candied Ginger: A zingy crunch enhances the ginger flavor profile in the cookies while adding an adventurous twist, perfect for ginger lovers.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with warm caramel can transform your cookies into an indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist, merging cold and warm textures beautifully.

Storage Tips for Ginger Molasses Cookies

Airtight Container: Keep your Ginger Molasses Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Refrigeration: If you want to enjoy them a little longer, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer Storage: Freeze unassembled cookies and buttercream separately in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling for a delightful holiday treat.

Reheating Tips: For a warm, straight-from-the-oven experience, briefly microwave cookies (about 10 seconds) before serving. This trick will soften them and bring back that fresh-baked taste!

Ginger Molasses Cookies with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs

What kind of molasses should I use?
You should use unsulfured molasses for a rich flavor without any bitterness. If you’re looking for a deeper flavor and darker color, you can opt for blackstrap molasses, although it has a stronger taste and may affect the overall sweetness of your cookies.

How should I store my Ginger Molasses Cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to ensure they maintain their soft texture. If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the cookies or the buttercream?
Absolutely! You can freeze unassembled cookies and the eggnog buttercream separately. Place cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months, and the buttercream can be stored in the freezer for the same duration. To use, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then assemble for a festive treat.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it for an additional 30 minutes. This should help firm it up. You can also add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency, being careful not to overmix.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, these Ginger Molasses Cookies are nut-free as long as all your ingredients are checked. However, always read labels for any potential cross-contamination if you’re baking for someone with allergies. If anyone has a dairy allergy, substituting margarine for softened butter works wonderfully.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) to bind the ingredients. Ensure you use a dairy-free eggnog alternative and a vegan butter for the buttercream to keep the festive spirit alive without any animal products!