Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to warm your heart and home, these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings are just the ticket! Picture this: two soft, chewy ginger molasses cookies hugging a creamy, dreamy eggnog frosting. They’re perfect for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or just a cozy night in with your favorite book. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

These cookies not only taste divine but also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that brings everyone running. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be whipping up these cookies in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the combination of ginger and molasses, making these cookies a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: The dough can chill in the fridge for up to 24 hours, so you can prep ahead and bake when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The warm spices combined with the sweetness of eggnog frosting create a delightful treat that will have you coming back for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for these delicious cookies. Gather these pantry staples and get ready to bake some magic!

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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some zest: Consider adding the zest of an orange or lemon for a bright twist.
• Switch up the spices: Try adding cardamom or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut oil for butter and use a dairy-free eggnog alternative.
• Chocolate lovers unite: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of your cookies for an indulgent touch!

How to Make Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it combines all those warming spices that give our cookies their signature flavor. Set this mixture aside while we work on the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth. It’s important to blend these well until no lumps remain—this gives our cookies that lovely chewy texture. Now add in your egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and molasses. Beat until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Turn your mixer down to low speed and slowly add in the flour mixture until fully incorporated. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed! Cover this delicious dough with cling wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Chilling helps deepen those flavors while making it easier to handle.

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. If your dough has been chilling for more than two hours, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before shaping into balls. Use about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie ball—using a cookie scoop works great here! Roll each ball in granulated or turbinado sugar before placing them on your prepared sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they’re just set on top.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

As your cookies cool on the tray for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack, it’s time to whip up that delightful eggnog frosting! In a medium bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add icing sugar by half-cups until you’ve used about two cups total. Then mix in eggnog one tablespoon at a time until you reach desired consistency. If needed, adjust sweetness with more powdered sugar.

Step 6: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Finally comes one of my favorite parts—sandwiching those cookies! Take one cooled cookie and spread about one tablespoon of frosting on its bottom side before gently placing another cookie on top. You’ll end up with around 16-18 delicious sandwich cookies ready to be enjoyed!

Now that you’ve created these scrumptious Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings, gather your loved ones around and indulge in this delightful treat together! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Creating the perfect ginger molasses sandwich cookies is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks to ensure delicious results!

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only enhances the flavors but also helps in preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
• Use a cookie scoop: This ensures uniformity in size, which means even baking and perfectly matched sandwich halves. Plus, it makes portioning out the dough a breeze!
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies during the last couple of minutes. The edges should be set while the centers may still appear soft; they will firm up as they cool.
• Sift your icing sugar: This step will prevent clumps in your frosting, making it smooth and easy to spread. A velvety frosting contributes to a delightful eating experience.
• Customize your eggnog frosting: Feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more icing sugar or eggnog according to your preference. A thicker frosting can hold up better between the cookies, while a thinner one can create a lovely drizzle effect.

How to Serve Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Presenting your ginger molasses sandwich cookies can be just as enjoyable as making them! Here are some fun ideas for serving these delightful treats.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of each frosted cookie adds an inviting aroma and a festive touch.
• Candied ginger pieces: Chopping up some candied ginger and sprinkling it on top gives a beautiful contrast in texture and an extra zing of flavor that complements the spices.

Side Dishes

• Chai tea: This warm, spiced beverage pairs beautifully with the flavors of ginger and molasses, enhancing your dessert experience.
• Hot cocoa: A rich cup of hot cocoa is always a crowd-pleaser; its creamy texture balances out the chewy cookies perfectly.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, offering a balanced dessert spread.
• Spiced apple cider: Served warm or chilled, this beverage echoes the spices found in your cookies while providing a cozy atmosphere for enjoying these treats.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your delicious ginger molasses sandwich cookies with eggnog frostings! Enjoy baking and celebrating with these sweet delights!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings are perfect for meal prep! You can make the cookies ahead of time and store them, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat whenever a craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sandwich cookies in an airtight container.
• Keep them at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze the cookies without frosting, and prepare the frosting fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

• To enjoy them warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings.

Can I use a different frosting instead of eggnog?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of eggnog, feel free to use vanilla or cream cheese frosting instead. Both options will complement the ginger molasses flavor beautifully.

How long will Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings last?

When stored properly at room temperature, these delicious sandwich cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, they can last up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings?

Yes! You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. It’s best to freeze them without frosting and prepare the frosting when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What makes these cookies so soft and chewy?

The combination of butter, brown sugar, and molasses gives these cookies their signature soft and chewy texture. Plus, chilling the dough before baking helps achieve that perfect consistency!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings are not just treats; they’re little bundles of comfort that create sweet moments with every bite. Enjoy making them as much as you will savor eating them! I would love to hear how yours turn out—happy baking!