Ingredients
Scale
Essential Ingredients for Gingerbread Latte Cookies
To create these delicious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies. Ensure it’s spooned and leveled for accuracy.
- 2 teaspoons Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and achieve a soft, chewy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons Ground Ginger: Gives the cookies their signature warm, spicy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon: Adds a depth of flavor and a cozy aroma.
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Clove: Provides a subtle, aromatic spice note.
- 1 tablespoon Espresso Powder: Infuses the cookies with a rich coffee flavor, reminiscent of a gingerbread latte.
- 1 ½ sticks Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds moisture and richness to the cookies.
- ¾ cup Brown Sugar (dark or light): Adds sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor, enhancing the gingerbread taste.
- ¼ cup White Granulated Sugar: Contributes to the cookies’ texture and sweetness.
- 1 Large Egg (room temperature): Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors in the cookies.
- ¼ cup Molasses: A key ingredient for the deep, rich flavor of gingerbread.
- White Granulated Sugar (for rolling): Creates a slightly crisp exterior when baked.
The Secret to the Perfect Coffee Glaze
The coffee glaze is what makes these cookies extraordinary. Here’s what you need:
- 1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar (sifted): Provides a smooth and sweet base for the glaze.
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Adds a hint of warmth to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons Espresso or Strong Coffee: Gives the glaze its coffee flavor. Adjust the amount as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Instructions
How to Make Gingerbread Latte Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground clove, ground ginger, cinnamon, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and white granulated sugar on high speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and molasses until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Use a 1.5 oz ice cream scoop to portion out the dough, and place the scooped dough balls on a baking sheet. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the cookies hold their shape and develop a deeper flavor.
- Prepare to Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Coffee Glaze
- Mix the Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and espresso or strong coffee. Adjust by adding coffee, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you achieve a drizzling consistency.
- Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the coffee glaze over each one. Let the glaze harden before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Creative Ways to Serve Gingerbread Latte Cookies
- With a Hot Beverage: Serve these cookies with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Holiday Gift: Pack them in a festive tin or a decorative box to give as a homemade holiday gift.
- Cookie Swap Party: Bring them to a cookie swap for a unique and delicious option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Category: Christmas