Ginger sandwich cookies – the name alone evokes a sense of warmth and comfort. These delightful treats, with their perfectly spiced ginger cookies sandwiching a smooth, creamy filling, are a classic for a reason. They’re the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, crunchy and creamy, and they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring your ginger sandwich cookies turn out perfect every time. So, tie on your apron, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Tools of the Trade:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Wire rack
Let’s Bake Some Cookies:
1. Making the Ginger Cookies:
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
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Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
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Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before frosting.
2. Whipping Up the Creamy Filling:
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In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Assembling the Ginger Sandwich Cookies:
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Once the cookies are completely cool, pair them up with a partner of similar size and shape.
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Spread a generous amount of frosting onto the bottom of one cookie and top it with its partner, creating a sandwich.
Ginger Sandwich Cookies
Tips and Tricks for Baking Success:
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Chilling the dough is crucial! This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
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Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Use high-quality spices. Fresh spices make a big difference in flavor!
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Get creative with your cookie cutters. You can use any shape you like!
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For a festive touch, sprinkle the frosted cookies with red and green sugar sprinkles.
FAQs:
Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to 2 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before filling and serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of filling?
A: Of course! While the classic cream cheese frosting is delicious, feel free to get creative. Try peanut butter frosting, chocolate ganache, or even lemon curd for a tangy twist.
Ginger Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
Conclusion:
There you have it – your guide to baking delicious ginger sandwich cookies. These sweet and spicy treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy nights in. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the baking begin!
Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience making these ginger sandwich cookies. And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other posts on Family Cuisine.
