Introduction
Delight in the festive spirit with these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies crowned with a luscious Eggnog Frosting. The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves mingle beautifully with the richness of molasses, creating a cookie that’s perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy afternoon treat. They’re sure to be a hit, whether shared at a cookie exchange or enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 sandwich cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In another bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract until smooth to make the frosting.
- Spread a generous amount of frosting on the flat side of one cookie and top with another to create a sandwich.
- Repeat with the remaining cookies and frosting.
Notes or Tips
- For a spicier flavor, feel free to add an extra teaspoon of ground ginger.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for the best blending.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect texture, be sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly until light and fluffy. This will ensure your cookies come out soft and tender while still maintaining enough structure for the delightful frosting.
FAQ
- Can I use a different frosting? Yes, cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream can also be delicious alternatives.
- What can I substitute for molasses? An equal amount of dark corn syrup can be used, but the flavor will differ slightly.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cookies, and then frost them after thawing.
Conclusion
These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a delightful addition to any festive table. With their inviting spices and creamy filling, they embody the warmth of the holiday season. So gather your loved ones, bake a batch, and enjoy the sweet moments together!