We’ve always been fans of the warm, spicy kick in Ginger Creams cookies, a classic treat that hails from American baking traditions. These soft chewy delights blend ginger’s zesty flavor with a creamy frosting for an irresistible combo that’s perfect for holidays or everyday indulgences.
Ingredients
As we dive into creating our delicious Ginger Creams Cookies, let’s gather the essential ingredients that bring out their signature soft and chewy texture with zesty ginger flavor. We’ll organize them by category for clarity, starting with those for the cookies and then the creamy frosting.
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light base.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Mixed with dry ingredients for the right rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- *1 tablespoon ground ginger: The star spice that delivers that bold, zesty kick.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to complement the ginger.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a subtle, aromatic note.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creamed for a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and moisture.
- 1 large egg: At room temperature to bind ingredients smoothly.
- *1/4 cup molasses: Key for that rich, chewy consistency we love in these classics.
For the Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sifted for a smooth, creamy finish.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Whipped to create the frosting’s light texture.
- *1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, fragrant touch.
- *2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjust for desired frosting consistency – start with 2 tablespoons for a thicker spread.
Equipment Needed
Before we begin baking our irresistible Ginger Creams cookies, let’s ensure we have the right tools on hand to achieve that perfect soft and chewy texture with zesty ginger flavor.
To prepare the dough and frosting efficiently, we’ll need the following essential equipment. We’ve organized this list by the stages of preparation for smooth workflow:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet—to keep our measurements precise and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard cups (1 cup, ½ cup, etc.) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, etc.) for accurate portioning of ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: A stand mixer or electric hand mixer for creaming butter and sugar; if using a whisk, opt for a sturdy one to ensure even blending.
- Baking Sheets: At least two rimmed sheets to accommodate multiple batches, lined with parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: A 1.5-inch scoop for uniform cookie sizes, helping maintain consistent baking times and shapes.
- Spatula and Wooden Spoon: A silicone spatula for scraping bowls and a wooden spoon for folding in ingredients without overmixing.
- Cooling Rack: A wire rack to cool cookies quickly and evenly, preserving their soft texture before frosting.
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 350°F for baking; ensure it’s calibrated for accurate temperature control.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: To line baking sheets and prevent sticking, ensuring our cookies release perfectly.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps for our Ginger Creams cookies.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment assembled, we guide you through the steps to create soft chewy Ginger Creams cookies bursting with ginger spice and creamy delight. Let’s ensure each phase delivers flawless texture and flavor.
Prep the Dough
First, we whisk together the dry ingredients to build a solid base for our Ginger Creams cookies. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves until evenly distributed.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, we cream 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) with 1/2 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg and 1/4 cup molasses then beat on low speed until fully incorporated creating a rich aromatic mixture that hints at the ginger‘s warmth.
Gradually, we add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients mixing on low speed just until a soft dough forms. Gently knead the dough with a wooden spoon if needed to avoid overworking it ensuring our cookies remain tender and chewy.
Bake the Cookies
Once the dough is ready, we preheat our oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper for even baking. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, we portion out 1-tablespoon sized balls of dough spacing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets to allow for spreading.
We bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. As they bake, the kitchen fills with the irresistible scent of ginger and spices. After baking, we transfer the cookies to a cooling rack using a spatula and let them cool completely for about 10 minutes to achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Prepare the Cream Filling
In a clean mixing bowl, we start by beating 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened) with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Gradually, add 1 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1-2 tablespoons milk mixing until the frosting reaches a creamy spreadable consistency.
We adjust the milk amount as needed—1 tablespoon for thicker frosting or 2 for a lighter version—ensuring the filling is velvety and enhances the Ginger Creams‘ spicy notes with its sweet creaminess.
Assemble the Cookies
With the cookies cooled and filling prepared, we pair up the cookies by size for uniform sandwiches. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the cream filling onto the flat side of one cookie using a spatula then gently press another cookie on top to create a delightful sandwich.
We repeat this process for all cookies arranging them on a plate or storage container. For the best taste, let the assembled Ginger Creams sit for 5 minutes allowing the flavors to meld into a harmonious treat ready to enjoy.
Make-Ahead and Storage
As we perfect our Ginger Creams cookies, planning ahead ensures freshness and convenience without compromising their soft, chewy texture or zesty ginger flavor. Let’s break down the best ways to prepare these treats in advance and store them properly.
Make-Ahead Tips
We recommend making components of our Ginger Creams cookies ahead to streamline baking day. Here’s how:
- Dough Preparation: After mixing the dough as outlined in our earlier steps, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to let the flavors meld, enhancing the ginger and cinnamon notes for even more irresistible results.
- Baked Cookies: Bake the cookies fully, then cool them completely on a rack. Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days before adding the creamy frosting. This allows us to assemble Ginger Creams sandwiches fresh when needed, preserving their signature soft centers.
- Full Assembly: If frosting the cookies, prepare the sandwiches and let them set for a few minutes as described. For longer make-ahead, freeze the assembled cookies (more details below) to enjoy their creamy, spiced goodness later.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage keeps our Ginger Creams cookies moist and flavorful. Use these methods based on your timeline:
- Short-Term Storage: For cookies enjoyed within a few days, place unfrosted ones in an airtight container at room temperature. If frosted, refrigerate in a single layer to prevent sticking, which helps maintain the creamy frosting’s smooth texture.
- Long-Term Storage: Freezing is ideal for extending shelf life. Below is a quick reference table for storage durations and tips:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature (unfrosted) | 3-5 days | Keep in a cool, dry spot to retain the cookies’ soft, chewy feel and prevent staleness. |
| Refrigerator (frosted) | Up to 1 week | Wrap individually or use parchment paper between layers to avoid sogginess from moisture. |
| Freezer (unfrosted or frosted) | 2-3 months | Flash-freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This locks in the zesty ginger aroma and prevents freezer burn. |
When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen cookies in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture, or at room temperature for quicker access. Revive any stored cookies by warming them briefly in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to restore their fresh-baked warmth and flavor.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Ginger Creams cookie recipe with you, as it’s a timeless favorite that brings warmth to any gathering. Baking these treats lets us create moments of pure delight, blending tradition with simple ingredients for outstanding results.
Remember, we’re confident you’ll enjoy the process and the tasty outcome, so give it a try and make it your own. It’s all about savoring those homemade flavors that keep us coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ginger Creams cookies?
Ginger Creams cookies are a classic American treat known for their soft, chewy texture and zesty ginger flavor, topped with creamy frosting. They combine spices, molasses, and a sweet sandwich-style assembly for a comforting dessert.
What ingredients are needed for Ginger Creams cookies?
For the cookies, you’ll need all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground spices, unsalted butter, sugar, a large egg, and molasses. The frosting requires powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and milk. These simple ingredients create a flavorful, homemade delight.
What equipment is required to bake Ginger Creams cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer for creaming ingredients, baking sheets for cooking, and a cooling rack to set the cookies properly and maintain their texture.
How do I make Ginger Creams cookies?
Start by whisking dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and spices. Cream butter and sugar, then add egg and molasses to form dough. Bake the cookies, cool them, and assemble with frosting to make sandwiches. Let them sit for enhanced flavor—total process takes about 30 minutes prep plus baking time.
Can I prepare the dough for Ginger Creams cookies in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to three days. This allows flavors to develop and makes baking more convenient, ensuring fresh-tasting cookies when you’re ready.
How should I store Ginger Creams cookies?
Store unfrosted cookies at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container to keep them moist. For longer storage, freeze assembled cookies for up to three months, which helps maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
How do I thaw and revive frozen Ginger Creams cookies?
Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about an hour, then let them sit for a few minutes to soften. If needed, warm briefly in the oven at low heat to restore their fresh-baked moisture and chewy consistency.