Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 cookie):
Calories: 100
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 85mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- Honey can be used instead of molasses for a milder taste.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or raisins to the dough for added texture.
- Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes instead of rolling into balls.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Tips and tricks:
- Don't overmix the dough to prevent tough cookies.
- Chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave the cookies for 10-15 seconds to warm them up before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a festive plate or platter for a holiday gathering.
Garnishes:
Dust the cookies with powdered sugar or sprinkle with cinnamon for a finishing touch.
Pairings:
Serve the cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cookies are too flat, chill the dough for longer before baking.
- If the cookies are too dry, reduce the baking time or add a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
Food safety advice:
Always wash your hands and clean your work surface before preparing food. Make sure to store the cookies properly to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Moravian spice cookies originated in the Moravian settlement of Salem, North Carolina in the 18th century. The cookies were traditionally made with a blend of spices and molasses, and were often served during the holiday season.
Flavor profiles:
These cookies have a warm and spicy flavor with a hint of sweetness from the molasses.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these cookies as a sweet snack or dessert during the holiday season.
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Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Aromatic, Molasses, Nutty, Molasses-Flavored