GINGER MOLASSES SANDWICH COOKIES WITH EGGNOG FROSTING

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Introduction

Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are the perfect blend of cozy holiday flavors that will transport you straight into a winter wonderland. The soft, spiced ginger molasses cookies are rich with deep flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, offering a comforting warmth. Their chewy texture, combined with the subtle sweetness from the molasses, makes them irresistible. And when you sandwich them together with smooth, velvety eggnog frosting, it’s a match made in dessert heaven.

These cookies hold a special place in my holiday traditions. I first baked them during a snowy December afternoon, and they immediately became a family favorite. The ginger scent fills the kitchen as they bake, and the frosting, with its creamy, spiced eggnog flavor, takes these cookies to the next level. The frosting brings just the right amount of sweetness to balance the warm spices, making each bite a perfect harmony of flavors.

Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are ideal for any winter gathering, offering a nostalgic taste of the season. They’re great on their own, but when you bite into the sandwich, the combination of spiced cookie and creamy frosting is what truly makes them stand out. If you’re looking for a treat that will become a holiday classic, these cookies are the ones to make!

Perfect for:

• Holiday parties
• Cookie exchanges
• Family gatherings
• Cozy winter treats
• Eggnog lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting will become your go-to holiday treat:

• Classic Holiday Flavors: The spicy warmth of ginger and cinnamon combined with molasses is the perfect flavor combination for the holidays.
• Soft and Chewy: These cookies have a tender, chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Deliciously Creamy Frosting: The eggnog frosting adds a smooth, festive touch that complements the cookies beautifully.
• Fun to Make: The sandwich-style cookies are fun to assemble, making them a perfect activity to do with family or friends.
• Great for Gifting: These cookies make a beautiful and delicious homemade gift for the holiday season.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: About 12 sandwich cookies
• Calories per cookie: Approximately 250-280 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Ginger Molasses Cookies:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

For the Eggnog Frosting:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons eggnog
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Prepare the Ginger Molasses Cookies:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Egg and Molasses: Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
7. Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are slightly firm around the edges but soft in the center. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Eggnog Frosting:

9. Mix the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the powdered sugar, butter, eggnog, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
10. Chill the Frosting (Optional): For a thicker consistency, refrigerate the frosting for about 15-20 minutes before spreading.

Assemble the Sandwich Cookies:

11. Spread the Frosting: Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous amount of eggnog frosting on the bottom of one cookie.
12. Form the Sandwiches: Top with another cookie, pressing down gently to sandwich them together.
13. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with a pinch of ground nutmeg on top of the frosting for a festive touch.

How to Serve

Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting can be served in various ways to add a festive touch:

• Holiday Party Platter: Serve these cookies on a decorative platter as part of a festive cookie spread.
• Gift Boxes: Package them in cute boxes or jars for an edible homemade gift.
• With a Hot Drink: Pair with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or even a glass of eggnog for a cozy treat.
• As a Dessert Table Staple: Include these cookies on a dessert table alongside other holiday goodies.

Additional Tips

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial to preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be soft in the center and slightly firm around the edges.
• Use Fresh Eggnog: Make sure to use fresh eggnog for the frosting for the best flavor.
• Customize the Frosting: If you like a thicker frosting, reduce the eggnog or add more powdered sugar to achieve your preferred consistency.
• Store Properly: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegan Version: Replace the butter with vegan butter and the eggnog with a dairy-free alternative.
2. Chocolate Version: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist.
3. Spicy Eggnog Frosting: Increase the spices in the frosting by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ginger for an extra kick.
4. Maple Frosting: Use maple syrup instead of eggnog for a unique flavor twist on the frosting.
5. Mini Sandwich Cookies: Make smaller cookies for mini sandwich cookies, perfect for bite-sized treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the baked cookies (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Add frosting once they have thawed.
• Storage: Store the completed sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment

1. Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: To easily beat the butter and sugar, a hand mixer or stand mixer makes the job quicker.
2. Baking Sheets: Ensure your cookies bake evenly with lined baking sheets.
3. Wire Rack: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
4. Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures that the dough balls are uniform in size for even baking.
5. Parchment Paper: Helps to prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheets.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, the dough can be prepared a day in advance. Simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
2. Can I substitute the eggnog in the frosting?
   Yes, you can use heavy cream, milk, or even a flavored creamer as a substitute.
3. How can I make my frosting thicker?
   To thicken the frosting, add more powdered sugar, or refrigerate it for a longer time.
4. Can I use a different frosting for the cookies?
   Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or buttercream frosting are great alternatives.
5. Can I freeze these cookies?
   Yes, you can freeze the cookies (without frosting) for up to 2 months.
6. Are these cookies gluten-free?
   You can make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
7. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
   Make sure to chill the dough before baking, as this helps the cookies retain their shape.
8. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
   Yes, you can add chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
9. Can I make these cookies without the frosting?
   Yes, these cookies are delicious on their own without the frosting if you prefer a simpler version.
10. How do I store leftover frosting?
    Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are the perfect holiday indulgence, offering a warm, spiced flavor that will make every bite feel like a festive celebration. The soft, chewy texture of the cookies is complemented by the rich, creamy eggnog frosting, creating a delightful contrast that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The balance of ginger and molasses adds a cozy, nostalgic feel, while the eggnog frosting elevates the taste to something truly special.

These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful addition to your holiday cookie spread. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them yourself, Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a must-try festive delight. I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this recipe—don’t forget to share your creations on social media! Enjoy every delicious bite!