Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy clean-up.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this should take a few minutes.
- Beat in the egg, then mix in the water and molasses until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring until just combined into a soft dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, just until the edges are set while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking!
- Once baked, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Soft Gingersnaps are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving game with a few creative ideas. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. Additionally, they make for a splendid accompaniment to a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa, turning your snack time into a little celebration.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your Soft Gingersnaps fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients.
- If you prefer a deeper flavor, try using dark molasses instead of regular.
- Make sure your butter is soft, not melted—it will help maintain the cookie’s chewy texture.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to enhance your Soft Gingersnaps:
- Incorporate chocolate chips for a delightful contrast.
- Add chopped crystallized ginger for an extra zing.
- Adjust spices to your taste, such as adding nutmeg or swapping in cardamom.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Soft Gingersnaps?
Preparation time is roughly 15 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes of baking time, making them a speedy treat to whip up.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, and whole wheat flour can be substituted for regular flour for a nuttier flavor.
How do I know if my cookies are done baking?
Watch for the edges to firm up while the centers remain soft; they should not look completely baked to ensure that signature softness.
With these insights and tips, you’re well-equipped to create the perfect Soft Gingersnaps that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Happy baking!
