Introduction
Imagine a cookie that’s not just a treat, but a warm hug on a chilly day. That’s exactly what Big Soft Ginger Cookies are. These cookies are a delightful blend of spices and sweetness, with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to bring smiles and warmth to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons white sugar (for rolling)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup butter or margarine, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 tablespoon water
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Get started by warming your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). The small bowl of 2 tablespoons of sugar should be set aside for later—it’s our secret weapon for that extra sparkle.
2️⃣ Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This mix is the heart of our cookies, giving them their signature flavor.
3️⃣ Cream Butter and Sugar: In a larger bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect soft texture. Beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses and water, blending well.
4️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet molasses mixture. Stir until the dough is well combined and evenly mixed. The anticipation builds here!
5️⃣ Shape and Sugar Coat: With floured hands, shape the dough into 24 walnut-sized balls. Roll each ball in the reserved sugar, coating them well. This gives them a beautiful sparkle and a slight crunch. Place them 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets, and gently flatten with the bottom of a glass.
6️⃣ Bake: Slide the cookies into the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to switch the racks halfway through for an even bake. They should be beautifully cracked on top when done.
7️⃣ Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience pays off with the perfect texture.
Notes and Tips
- For an extra ginger kick, add a tablespoon of finely chopped crystallized ginger to the dough.
- If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Nutrition Details
- Serving: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 12g
- Vitamin D: 0.2µg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 1mg
Ginger not only adds a distinctive flavor but also brings anti-inflammatory properties to the table. These cookies are a sweet way to enjoy the benefits of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, each with its own health perks.
FAQs
Q: Can I use gluten-free flour? A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s a 1:1 baking blend for the best results.
Q: How long do these cookies last? A: Stored in an airtight container, they’ll keep for up to a week at room temperature, making them perfect for gifting.
Q: Can I freeze the dough? A: Yes, the dough freezes well. Shape it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Big Soft Ginger Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a journey to comfort and joy, wrapped in the warm embrace of spices. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to fill your home with a delightful aroma and your heart with warmth.