Name: Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for gluten-free option); 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter for vegan adaptation); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option); 1/4 cup molasses; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 to 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1/4 cup eggnog; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); Pinch of ground cloves or allspice (optional for spiced up frosting); Finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for nutty addition in cookie dough); 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for chocolate twist in dough); Chocolate drizzle on frosting (for chocolate twist)

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If you’re craving a festive treat that perfectly balances warm spices and creamy sweetness, look no further than the Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting. These delightful cookies capture the essence of holiday flavors by combining rich molasses-infused ginger cookies with a luscious eggnog frosting that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or a seasonal party, these sandwich cookies deliver a spicy, sweet, and creamy experience that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Holiday flavor harmony: The perfect blend of ginger, molasses, and eggnog creates a festive flavor profile that captures the season’s spirit.
Soft yet chewy texture: These cookies have a tender bite with a slight chew, making them absolutely satisfying to eat.
Beautiful presentation: The sandwich style with frosting makes them look as good as they taste—ideal for gifting and parties.
Simple to bake: Using straightforward ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
Customizable frosting: The eggnog frosting can be adapted with spices or extracts to suit your taste perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the spicy sweetness and creamy texture of these cookies. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from bringing depth to the dough to enriching the frosting with holiday cheer.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape well.
Ground ginger and cinnamon: These spices infuse the dough with a warm, aromatic flavor that’s essential for the ginger molasses profile.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft texture without spreading too thin.
Molasses: Adds deep sweetness and moisture while enhancing the ginger flavor.
Unsalted butter: Brings richness and contributes to the tender crumb of the cookies.
Granulated sugar: Balances the strong molasses and spices with a touch of sweetness.
Egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring the dough comes together perfectly.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
Powdered sugar: The base for eggnog frosting, giving it that smooth, fluffy texture.
Eggnog: Used in the frosting to deliver a creamy, festive flavor that complements the cookies beautifully.
Nutmeg (optional): Adds extra spice to the frosting for an authentic holiday touch.

Variations for Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe! Whether you have dietary preferences or want to experiment with flavors, these variations make it easy to personalize your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting.

Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a safe alternative.
Vegan adaptation: Use vegan butter and a flax egg to make these treats plant-based and just as tasty.
Spiced up frosting: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the eggnog frosting for an extra holiday spice kick.
Chocolate twist: Mix cocoa powder into the cookie dough or add a chocolate drizzle on top of the frosting.
Nutty addition: Incorporate finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for a subtle crunch.

Best Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

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How to Make Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the cookie dough

Begin by whisking together your dry ingredients: flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until creamy, then incorporate the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least one hour. This chilling step solidifies the dough, making it easier to roll out and preventing excessive spreading during baking.

Step 3: Roll and cut the cookies

Once chilled, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out matching rounds, placing them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the cookies

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until they are set around the edges but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 5: Make the eggnog frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat powdered sugar with softened butter until fluffy. Slowly add eggnog and a pinch of nutmeg, continuing to beat until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 6: Assemble the sandwich cookies

Spread a generous dollop of eggnog frosting on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich it with another on top. Press gently to adhere and let the frosting set before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Use room temperature butter: This ensures your dough and frosting mix evenly without lumps.
Don’t overbake: Remove cookies as soon as edges set to keep them soft and chewy inside.
Chill dough thoroughly: This step prevents spreading and helps cookies hold their shape.
Sift powdered sugar: For silky smooth frosting, sift powdered sugar before mixing to avoid clumps.
Customize frosting thickness: Adjust eggnog quantity in frosting for either a thicker spread or lighter glaze.

How to Serve Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top of the frosting for visual appeal and an extra layer of festive flavor. You can also garnish with tiny edible gold flakes or festive sprinkles to make them party-ready.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a hot cup of spiced chai tea or a glass of cold eggnog for a deliciously complementary holiday snack. They also work wonderfully alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack several sandwich cookies in a clear glass jar with a festive ribbon for gifting, or arrange them on a holiday-themed platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or pine branches to add natural holiday charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing

If you want to save these cookies for later, freeze the unfrosted cookies separately by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze the frosting in its own container. Thaw both completely before assembling to maintain freshness.

Reheating

For a freshly-baked warmth, gently warm cookies (without frosting) in a low oven (about 250°F or 120°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid heating the assembled sandwich cookies to preserve the texture of the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought eggnog in the frosting?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly and brings that classic creamy holiday flavor to your frosting without extra hassle.

What if I don’t have molasses? Can I substitute it?

Molasses is key for authentic flavor and moisture, but you can substitute with dark corn syrup or honey in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly lighter.

How do I keep the cookies soft after baking?

Be careful not to overbake and store cookies in an airtight container to retain moisture. Adding a slice of bread to the container can also help keep them soft.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time for holiday parties?

Yes, you can bake and freeze the cookies upfront, then frost them closer to the event day for maximum freshness and flavor.

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Definitely! The flavors are kid-friendly, and the eggnog frosting is non-alcoholic and creamy, making it a hit with younger taste buds.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting, you’ll understand why they quickly become a holiday baking tradition. The rich spices and sweet frosting come together to create a timeless treat, perfect for sharing joy all season long. Give this recipe a go—you’ll be spreading smiles with every bite!