Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies With Eggnog Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect holiday cookie, these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are sure to impress. Combining the warm, spiced flavors of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and molasses with a creamy eggnog buttercream, these cookies are a delightful treat for any festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to bake something special, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers cookies that are soft, chewy, and filled with seasonal goodness. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients for Ginger Molasses Cookies

To make these delicious cookies, you will need:

• 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape while baking.
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger – Adds a warm and spicy flavor, essential for ginger cookies.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Complements the ginger with a sweet and woody spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Offers a rich, aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds a subtle depth and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise, making them soft and chewy.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature – Gives the cookies a rich, buttery taste and texture.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 large egg, room temperature – Provides structure and binds the ingredients together.
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature – Adds extra richness and tenderness to the cookies.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a subtle vanilla note.
• 1/3 cup molasses (not blackstrap) – Gives the cookies their characteristic flavor, color, and chewy texture.
• 1/3 cup turbinado or granulated sugar – Used for rolling the cookie dough balls, adding a delightful crunch.

this RECIPE

Ingredients for Eggnog Buttercream Frosting

For the frosting, you will need:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature – Forms the creamy base of the frosting.
• 2-3 cups icing sugar, sifted – Adds sweetness and stability to the buttercream.
• 3-4 tablespoons eggnog – Infuses the frosting with a festive, creamy flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon rum extract (optional) – Adds a subtle, extra layer of flavor without the alcohol.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Ginger Molasses Cookies

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. This step ensures that all the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving your cookies a consistent flavor throughout.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, with no lumps remaining. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and molasses, and continue beating until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

3. Combine and Chill the Dough

Gradually turn the mixer to low speed and slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is fully combined. Be careful not to overmix. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. This chilling period helps to develop the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle.

Baking the Ginger Molasses Cookies

1. Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Remove the dough from the refrigerator. If it has been chilled for more than 2 hours, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften slightly.

2. Form the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, form the dough into balls about 1.5 tablespoons in size. Roll each ball in the turbinado or granulated sugar to coat, then place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

3. Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops are just set and no longer look wet. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should be soft and chewy. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Making the Eggnog Buttercream Frosting

1. Prepare the Frosting Base

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Slowly add in the icing sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, and continue to beat until fully incorporated.

2. Add the Eggnog

Gradually add the eggnog, one tablespoon at a time, beating continuously until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add the optional rum extract at this stage. The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and easy to spread. Adjust the sweetness by adding more icing sugar or eggnog as needed.

Assembling the Sandwich Cookies

Once the cookies have completely cooled, it’s time to assemble them. Take one cookie and spread about 1 tablespoon of the eggnog frosting on the bottom side. Place another cookie on top, pressing gently to create a sandwich. Repeat until all cookies are paired. This recipe makes about 16-18 sandwich cookies.

Presentation Ideas for Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also beautiful on a festive platter. Consider arranging them on a decorative holiday plate, dusting them lightly with powdered sugar for a snow-kissed effect, or wrapping them in clear cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon for a delightful homemade gift.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can cause the cookies to become tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F to ensure even baking.
• Frosting Too Thin: If your frosting is too thin, add more icing sugar. If it’s too thick, add a little more eggnog.

Storage Tips for Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies without the frosting. When ready to serve, thaw the cookies at room temperature and frost them before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these ginger molasses sandwich cookies with a hot cup of cocoa, tea, or coffee for a cozy treat. They also make a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap Spices: If you don’t have ground cloves or nutmeg, try using allspice or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts or Candied Ginger: For extra texture and flavor, mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or candied ginger into the cookie dough.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire cooling rack

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To store unfrosted cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQ About Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking.

Q: Can I use blackstrap molasses?
No, blackstrap molasses is too bitter and will overpower the flavors of the cookies. Use regular unsulfured molasses for the best results.

Q: How can I make the frosting without eggnog?
If you don’t have eggnog, try substituting with heavy cream and adding a bit more vanilla or a pinch of nutmeg.

Conclusion

These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a perfect holiday treat that’s sure to impress. Easy to make, delightfully chewy, and packed with seasonal flavors, they’re a must-try this festive season. Give them a try and share your results! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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