Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings Recipe

If you’re craving a holiday treat that perfectly balances warm spices and a creamy, festive twist, look no further than these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings. Imagine soft, chewy ginger molasses cookies hugging a velvety eggnog-infused frosting that’s just sweet and spiced enough to make you smile with every bite. This classic flavor duo feels like the ultimate seasonal hug, perfect for sharing with friends or sneaking bites before anyone notices. Once you try these, they’ll quickly become a cherished favorite in your cookie repertoire, evoking cozy winter evenings and joyful celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of warm, spicy flavor and tender texture in the cookies, while the frosting brings a festive richness that ties everything together beautifully.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure without weighing the cookies down.
• Ground ginger: Adds that signature spicy warmth essential to ginger cookies.
• Cinnamon: Brings sweetness and depth in every bite.
• Ground cloves and ground nutmeg: These two add friendly hints of earthiness and holiday cheer.
• Baking soda: Ensures just the right lift for soft, chewy cookies.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the spices’ magic.
• Unsalted butter: Softened for creaminess and rich flavor in both cookies and frosting.
• Brown sugar: Packed with molasses, it keeps the cookies moist and flavorful.
• Egg and egg yolk: Egg for binding and yolk for added richness.
• Vanilla extract: Smooths and complements the spices perfectly.
• Molasses (not blackstrap): Its deep, sweet intensity defines the cookie’s character.
• Turbinado or granulated sugar: For rolling the dough, giving a slight crunch and sparkle.
• Icing sugar: The essential component to fluffy, sweet frosting.
• Eggnog: Brings that classic holiday flavor and helps with frosting consistency.
• Rum extract (optional): Adds an extra layer of festive depth if you like a boozy hint.

How to Make Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Begin by whisking together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This step ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout your dough, which is key to the cookie’s balanced flavor profile.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar, Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and brown sugar until lump-free and fluffy. Then, mix in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and molasses. This mixture is rich and fragrant, laying the foundation for deeply spiced cookies.

Step 3: Combine and Chill the Dough

Turn the mixer to low and gradually add the dry ingredients until fully combined. Scrape down the bowl’s sides for an even blend, cover with cling wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. This chilling step helps develop flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.

Step 4: Shape, Sugar Coat, and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Scoop dough balls about 1.5 tablespoons each, roll them generously in turbinado or granulated sugar, and space them two inches apart. Bake 8-10 minutes until just set on top, then let cool slightly on the tray before transferring to wire racks. This process keeps the cookies chewy with a slightly crisp exterior.

Step 5: Prepare the Eggnog Frosting

While the cookies cool, beat softened butter until smooth, then gradually mix in sifted icing sugar in half-cup increments to avoid lumps. Add eggnog a tablespoon at a time, plus rum extract if you wish, until you reach a spreadable, luscious consistency. Adjust with more powdered sugar or eggnog for your desired sweetness and texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Cookies

Take one cookie and spread about one tablespoon of the eggnog frosting on its flat side, then gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat to create about 16 to 18 delightful cookie sandwiches. This final step is where both the flavors marry and the cookie becomes the perfect festive treat.

How to Serve Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Garnishes

For an extra-special presentation, sprinkle a little freshly grated nutmeg or a dusting of cinnamon over the frosting. Tiny edible gold stars or festive colored sugar crystals can also add a magical holiday sparkle. These simple touches turn your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings into mini works of art that delight the eye as much as the palate.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair fabulously with a warm cup of chai tea, spiced latte, or classic eggnog to echo the frosting’s flavors. You might also serve with a glass of mulled wine or hot apple cider during holiday gatherings for a decadent and comforting combo. The slight spice and sweet frosting stand up well to these rich, flavorful beverages.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings into a festive gift by wrapping them in parchment and tying with a rustic twine bow. Arrange them on a holiday cookie platter with other seasonal treats like peppermint bark or cranberry biscotti for an irresistible spread. You can even serve them as a fun dessert stack with layers of whipped cream and crushed toasted nuts for a whimsical crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them moist and soft, letting those warm ginger and molasses flavors mature beautifully.

Freezing

These cookies freeze well! Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap, then place all in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature; the frosting and cookie texture will be just as delightful as fresh.

Reheating

If you prefer to enjoy the cookies slightly warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for just 5 minutes. This revives their fragrant aroma and soft texture without melting the frosting, preserving the perfect balance of flavors every time.

FAQs

Can I make the cookies without molasses?

Molasses is essential for that classic deep flavor and moist texture in these cookies, so it’s best not to skip it. But if unavailable, blackstrap molasses can be used in a pinch, though the taste will be more robust and less sweet.

Is the rum extract necessary in the frosting?

Not at all! The rum extract is optional and adds a subtle warmth and festive note, but the eggnog alone already gives the frosting plenty of holiday flavor. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

How do I get the frosting to the right thickness?

Start by adding eggnog slowly and beat well after each addition. If it gets too thin, add more sifted icing sugar. If too thick, add a little more eggnog. The goal is a smooth spreadable frosting that holds its shape when sandwiched between cookies.

What’s the secret to soft, chewy cookies?

Chilling the dough before baking and not overbaking are key steps. Also, the combination of brown sugar and molasses adds moisture and chewiness that make these cookies stand out.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the eggnog frosting a day in advance and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whisk before spreading for best consistency.

Final Thoughts

These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings are more than just a cookie; they’re a celebration of all the best holiday flavors wrapped in a sweet, tender package. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or indulging in a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these delights will bring warmth and joy to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—once baked, they’ll quickly become your go-to festive treat, guaranteed to impress and comfort alike!

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