Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 egg
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the molasses, peanut butter, and egg and mix until combined.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thick.
7. Cut out the gingerbread men with cookie cutters and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. Allow to cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 gingerbread men
Nutritional Information: Not available
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil
- Brown sugar: Can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple syrup
- Molasses: Can be substituted with honey or agave syrup
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit for added flavor and texture
- Use different cookie cutters for different shapes
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or peanut butter
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking
- Use a sharp knife to cut out the shapes to prevent tearing
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Decorate with icing and sprinkles
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream
Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts
- Dried fruit
- Chocolate chips
- Sprinkles
Pairings:
- Hot cocoa
- Apple cider
- Vanilla ice cream
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before combining.
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container.
Food History:
Gingerbread has been around since the Middle Ages, when it was used to make cakes, cookies, and other treats. It was popularized in Europe during the Renaissance, when it was often used to make elaborate decorations for feasts and celebrations.
Flavor Profiles:
The flavor of these gingerbread men is a combination of sweet and spicy, with notes of molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. The peanut butter adds a creamy, nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or dessert
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream
- Serve with a cup of hot cocoa
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