Introduction
When it comes to timeless cookies, Classic Soft Baked Ginger Snaps are in a league of their own. They combine the warmth of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves with the rich, comforting sweetness of molasses. Soft yet chewy in texture, these ginger snaps are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to add a homemade touch to your holiday celebrations or simply craving a cookie to enjoy with a cup of tea, these soft baked ginger snaps will hit the spot. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about making these irresistible treats, from the ingredients and tools required to pro tips for success.
Why You’ll Love Soft Baked Ginger Snaps
There’s something magical about ginger snaps—particularly the soft, chewy version that melts in your mouth with every bite. These cookies are loaded with flavor, with the ideal balance of spicy warmth and sweetness. But what truly sets them apart is their texture. Unlike the traditional crisp ginger snap, these soft baked cookies offer a chewy, comforting bite that makes them both satisfying and addictive.
The recipe is simple, yet the combination of spices creates a complex flavor profile that appeals to all kinds of taste buds. Plus, these cookies are quick to make and require no complicated techniques—just mix, roll, bake, and enjoy. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers fantastic results every time.
Ingredients
To bake a batch of these Classic Soft Baked Ginger Snaps, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Flour: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Ground ginger: 1 ½ teaspoons
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cloves: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Butter: ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar (for the dough)
- Molasses: 1/3 cup unsulfured molasses
- Egg: 1 large egg
- Sugar: ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)
These ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and once you’ve gathered them, you’ll be well on your way to making a batch of delightful ginger snap cookies.
Necessary Tools of Soft Baked Ginger Snaps
You don’t need any fancy tools for this recipe, but here’s a list of what you’ll need to prepare and bake the cookies:
- Mixing bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar together.
- Baking sheets: Line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: To portion out dough.
- Rolling pin: To roll the dough into balls before baking.
- Cooling rack: To let the cookies cool after baking.
With these simple tools, you’ll be able to prepare your ginger snap cookies effortlessly.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize your ginger snap cookies:
- Swap molasses for honey: If you’re not a fan of the strong flavor of molasses, you can substitute it with honey. This will make the cookies a bit lighter in flavor, but still sweet and delicious.
- Add chopped crystallized ginger: For an extra ginger kick, chop up some crystallized ginger and fold it into the dough. This adds both texture and a stronger ginger flavor.
- Use brown sugar instead of white: Brown sugar will give the cookies a richer, more caramelized flavor. You can even use dark brown sugar for an extra depth of flavor.
- Make them gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure to check the rest of the ingredients for any hidden gluten.
- Add a glaze: For a little extra indulgence, drizzle the cookies with a simple icing made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
These ingredient swaps and additions will allow you to make the cookies your own, tailoring them to your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to bake your Classic Soft Baked Ginger Snaps:
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. - Add Molasses and Egg
Add the molasses and egg to the butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated. The molasses will give the cookies their signature deep flavor and rich color. - Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky. - Roll the Dough into Balls
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar, coating it evenly. - Bake the Cookies
Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are just set and lightly golden around the edges. The cookies will firm up as they cool. - Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before serving.
Pro Tips for of Classic Soft Baked Ginger Snaps
- Use softened butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing it. This helps the sugar cream more evenly and results in a softer, chewier cookie.
- Don’t overbake: For soft and chewy cookies, it’s important not to overbake them. Take them out of the oven when they are just set and slightly puffy.
- Chill the dough (optional): If you have the time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
- Store properly: These cookies will stay soft for longer if stored in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
These ginger snap cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few creative ways to serve them:
- With a glass of milk: Ginger snaps pair wonderfully with milk, so serve them alongside a cold glass for the perfect treat.
- Sandwich with frosting: Spread a little cream cheese frosting between two cookies to make a delicious sandwich.
- Serve as part of a cookie platter: Add these ginger snaps to a holiday cookie platter alongside other treats like sugar cookies and chocolate chip cookies.
Also, discover how to make soft and chewy gingersnap cookies with this easy recipe from Sue Bee Homemaker, delivering the perfect balance of spices and sweetness in every bite.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftover cookies (although they’re likely to disappear quickly!), here’s how to store them:
- Room temperature: Store your ginger snaps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: To freeze the cookies, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag with a piece of parchment paper between layers. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or place them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to refresh their soft, chewy texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (1 cookie):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs – Soft Baked Ginger Snaps
- Can I make these ginger snaps ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, simply roll and bake. - How do I make these cookies spicier?
If you love extra spice, add more ground ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. - Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free. - Why are my cookies too hard?
Overbaking is the most common cause of hard ginger snaps. Make sure to take them out of the oven when the edges are just golden. - How do I make these cookies crispier?
To make your ginger snaps crispier, flatten the dough balls slightly before baking.
Conclusion
Classic Soft Baked Ginger Snaps are a cozy, delicious treat perfect for any occasion. Moreover, with their perfect blend of spices, soft texture, and delightful sweetness, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying a few with your afternoon coffee, they’re always a hit. So grab your ingredients and start baking—you won’t regret it!
Also, enjoy the perfect combination of molasses and spice with these soft gingerbread cookies, a delightful treat for any occasion.
