Ginger snaps are a classic holiday treat that everyone loves. These spicy, crispy cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family during the festive season, but they’re also a great snack any time of the year. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make delicious ginger snaps with this easy recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make ginger snaps for 4 people:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling cookies)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
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In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add egg and molasses, and beat until well combined.
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Gradually add flour mixture to the butter mixture, and beat until just combined.
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Using a small cookie scoop, form dough into balls, and roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
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Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cookies are golden brown and set around the edges.
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Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious ginger snaps with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try some of these variations on the classic ginger snap recipe:
- Add chopped crystallized ginger to the dough for an extra burst of ginger flavor.
- Use dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper for a spicy kick.
- Dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for a decadent treat.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
If you’re looking for a vegan or gluten-free version of this recipe, here are some adaptations you can make:
Vegan Ginger Snaps
- Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of butter.
- Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of a regular egg.
- Use a vegan sugar (like turbinado or coconut sugar) instead of granulated sugar.
Gluten-Free Ginger Snaps
- Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
- Make sure your baking soda is gluten-free (some brands contain trace amounts of gluten).
- Use a gluten-free molasses (like Grandma’s) to ensure that the recipe is completely gluten-free.
Now you have everything you need to make delicious ginger snaps at home. Happy baking!
FAQ
What are ginger snaps?
Ginger snaps are a type of cookie made with molasses and flavored with ginger. They have a crunchy texture and are known for their spicy and sweet taste.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, you can use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger. However, you will need to peel and grate the ginger before adding it to the dough. Keep in mind that fresh ginger has a stronger flavor than ground ginger, so you may want to use less.
How long do ginger snaps last?
Ginger snaps can last for up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer.
Can I make ginger snaps without molasses?
Molasses is an important ingredient in ginger snaps, as it gives the cookies their signature flavor and texture. However, if you don’t have molasses, you can substitute it with honey, corn syrup, or maple syrup. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the cookies may be slightly different.
How should I store ginger snaps?
To keep ginger snaps fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also store them in the refrigerator or freezer for longer storage.
Can I freeze ginger snap dough?
Yes, you can freeze ginger snap dough. Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least an hour, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake the cookies, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed.
Can I make ginger snaps without eggs?
Yes, you can make ginger snaps without eggs. Simply replace the eggs with a mixture of 2 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of oil, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
Can I make ginger snaps gluten-free?
Yes, you can make ginger snaps gluten-free. Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture of the cookies may be slightly different.
How do I make my ginger snaps soft?
If you prefer softer ginger snaps, you can bake them for a shorter amount of time. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and remove them from the oven when they are still slightly soft in the middle. You can also add a tablespoon of milk or cream to the dough to make them softer and more tender.
Can I add other spices to my ginger snaps?
Yes, you can add other spices to your ginger snaps. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are all good options. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
