Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their soft and chewy texture, they bring a delightful spice to your dessert table. The unique combination of ginger and molasses pairs beautifully with creamy eggnog frosting, making them a standout choice for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Enjoy these cookies as a festive gift or an indulgent snack that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices combined with sweet molasses create a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Sharing: These sandwich cookies make great gifts during the holiday season or can be enjoyed at parties.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable Frosting: You can adjust the sweetness of the eggnog frosting to suit your taste preferences.
• Great Texture: The soft, chewy cookies paired with creamy frosting offer a delightful mouthfeel that will keep you coming back for more.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly combining ingredients without lumps.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to mix ingredients efficiently and keeps your workspace organized.
• Cookie sheets: Provides even baking surfaces, ensuring all cookies are cooked uniformly.
• Wire rack: Essential for cooling cookies quickly, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

These ginger molasses sandwich cookies feature 2 super soft and chewy cookies ginger molasses cookies sandwiched with Eggnog frosting.

For the Cookies

• 2 and 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup molasses, not blackstrap
• 1/3 cup turbinado or granulated sugar

For the Eggnog Frosting

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2-3 cups icing sugar, sifted
• 3-4 tablespoons eggnog
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, alcohol-free (optional)

How to Make Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
* Flour
* Ground ginger
* Cinnamon
* Ground cloves
* Ground nutmeg
* Baking soda
* Salt
Set aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together:
1. Softened butter and brown sugar on medium speed until no lumps remain.
2. Add in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and molasses. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour mixture on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down sides as needed.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
3. If dough has been chilled longer than two hours, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
4. Form dough into balls about 1.5 tablespoons in size; roll in granulated sugar.
5. Space dough balls two inches apart on prepared sheets; bake for 8–10 minutes until just set.

Step 5: Make Eggnog Frosting

While cookies cool:
1. Beat softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add icing sugar, about half a cup at a time, until two cups are incorporated.
3. Mix in eggnog one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached; optional vanilla extract can be added here.

Step 6: Assemble Cookies

Frost the bottom of one cookie with about one tablespoon of frosting; place another cookie on top to create sandwiches. Repeat until you’ve made about 16–18 sandwiches total.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings!

How to Serve Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

These delightful ginger molasses sandwich cookies are perfect for any gathering or celebration. Their festive flavors make them a wonderful treat to share with friends and family.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk complements the spiced flavors of the cookies perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a platter alongside other seasonal treats like brownies and fruit tarts for a festive dessert spread.

With Coffee or Tea

• The warmth of coffee or tea enhances the spicy notes in the cookies, making it an ideal afternoon snack.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package them in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts during the holiday season.

At Holiday Parties

• Serve them as a sweet addition to your holiday party menu, where they are sure to be a crowd favorite.

How to Perfect Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

To achieve the best results with your ginger molasses sandwich cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough not only enhances flavor but also helps maintain cookie shape during baking.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft when you remove them from the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add more eggnog a teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired spreadability.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preference. Adding extra ginger or cinnamon can enhance flavor!

Best Side Dishes for Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Pairing side dishes with your ginger molasses sandwich cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great ideas:

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This warm beverage matches beautifully with the spices in the cookies.
2. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider adds an extra layer of autumn flavor to your dessert table.
3. Chocolate Fondue: For those who love chocolate, dipping pieces of these cookies into chocolate fondue is simply indulgent.
4. Caramel Sauce: Serve alongside caramel sauce for drizzling, adding sweetness and depth to each bite.
5. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer creamy goodness that pairs well with the chewy texture of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ginger molasses sandwich cookies are a delightful treat, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can make it difficult for the dough to combine properly. Always ensure your butter is softened and your eggs are at room temperature before starting.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. Don’t skip this, as it can affect the texture of your cookies.
• Overbaking: It’s easy to leave cookies in the oven too long. Watch them closely; they should be just set and slightly soft in the center when you take them out.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Flour should be spooned into the measuring cup and leveled off, not scooped directly. This ensures you don’t end up with dry cookies due to excess flour.
• Ignoring frosting consistency: The eggnog frosting should be smooth enough to spread easily. If it’s too thick, add more eggnog; if too thin, add more icing sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

• Freeze cookie sandwiches for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie sandwich at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place on a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about ginger molasses sandwich cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different spices in Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings?

Yes! Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste. Try adding cardamom or allspice to enhance the flavor profile.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The cookies should look set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

What can I substitute for unsalted butter in this recipe?

You can use coconut oil or vegan butter as alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour.

Final Thoughts

These ginger molasses sandwich cookies with eggnog frostings are not only delicious but versatile as well. You can customize the spices or frosting flavors according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these festive treats!