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Spiced Ginger Cookies with a Twist

These homemade ginger cookies feature a warm, spicy aroma with a chewy texture and crackled surface. By combining fresh ginger, molasses, and traditional spices, they deliver nostalgic comfort, while optional additions like orange zest or honey add a surprising, fresh twist to the classic recipe.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Bakery, Holiday
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour preferably unbleached
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger or freshly grated ginger for more zing
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cloves a pinch for warmth
  • fresh ginger about 1 tablespoon grated
  • optional orange zest for a fresh twist

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Start by gathering your softened butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and aromatic, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the molasses and large egg to the creamed mixture. Beat again until well combined, releasing a warm, spicy aroma as the mixture darkens and thickens.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. If using fresh ginger and orange zest, add them now for bright, fiery notes.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding or mixing just until everything is incorporated. The dough will become thick, sticky, and fragrant with spices.
  5. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and then flatten slightly with your hands or a glass. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them well apart for spreading.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the surface is crackled with a shiny sheen. The warm aroma of spices will fill your kitchen.
  7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies rest for about 5 minutes. They will firm up slightly and develop a crackled surface, with a soft but chewy interior.
  8. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely. Their surface should be crackly and shiny, with a deep spicy aroma indicating they are ready to enjoy.
  9. Serve these cookies once cooled, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly at 150°C (300°F) for a warm, spicy treat.

Notes

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping to improve handling and flavor. For an extra spicy kick, add more ground ginger or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.