Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, festive treat that brings together warm spices and a creamy twist, you have to try these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings. This recipe combines the deep, rich flavor of molasses-spiced cookies with a luscious eggnog frosting that delivers both nostalgia and delight in every bite. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want to infuse a bit of seasonal magic into your day. Trust me, once you have a taste of these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings, they’ll quickly become one of your go-to favorites!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to creating these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings. Each element plays a crucial role, from the aromatic spices that give the cookies their signature warmth to the rich eggnog that turns the frosting into something extraordinary.

• All-purpose flour (2 and 3/4 cups): Provides structure and a perfect tender crumb to the cookies.
• Ground ginger (2 teaspoons): The star spice that brings bright, zesty warmth.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the spice blend.
• Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): A little goes a long way in giving a fragrant kick.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the spiced flavor with a nutty undertone.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise and become delightfully soft.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture to the cookie dough.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Brings caramel notes and chewiness to the texture.
• Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds ingredients and contributes to softness.
• Large egg yolk (1, room temperature): Adds extra richness and tenderness.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Lifts all the flavors with its mellow sweetness.
• Molasses (1/3 cup, not blackstrap): Infuses the classic bold, slightly smoky sweetness crucial for gingerbread-style cookies.
• Turbinado or granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Used to coat dough balls for a subtle crunch and sparkle.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, softened): Forms the creamy base of the luscious frosting.
• Icing sugar (2-3 cups, sifted): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfectly pipeable consistency.
• Eggnog (3-4 tablespoons): The magic ingredient in the frosting, delivering seasonal cheer and creamy flavor.
• Rum extract (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a festive boozy note without overpowering the frosting.

How to Make Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This step ensures your spices are evenly dispersed, so every cookie gets that lovely warm kick. Having the dry mix ready will make blending the dough smooth and fuss-free.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another big bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat together the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This creaming process aerates your dough, giving your cookies a tender texture. Then, beat in the egg, extra egg yolk, vanilla extract, and molasses until everything melds into one flavorful batter.

Step 3: Combine and Chill dough

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while running your mixer on low speed, making sure it all comes together with no flour streaks. Scrape down the bowl’s sides with a spatula, cover the dough with cling wrap, and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle and shaping your cookies perfectly.

Step 4: Shape and Bake Cookies

When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. If your dough has chilled for more than two hours, let it rest at room temperature briefly for easy scooping. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form dough balls about 1.5 tablespoons in size, then roll each ball in turbinado or granulated sugar. Arrange them about 2 inches apart on your baking sheets and bake 8 to 10 minutes until the tops just set. Let them cool on the tray before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Eggnog Frosting

While the cookies cool, create the dreamy eggnog frosting! Beat softened butter until smooth, then gradually mix in sifted icing sugar—about half a cup at a time—to avoid a powdery cloud in your kitchen. Add eggnog one tablespoon at a time until you reach desired creaminess, and stir in rum extract if you’re using it for a festive flair. The frosting should be spreadable but hold its shape.

Step 6: Assemble the Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Here comes the fun part! Spread roughly one tablespoon of frosting onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat until you have about 16 to 18 delightful cookie sandwiches. Refrigerate briefly if the frosting feels too soft before serving.

How to Serve Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings

Garnishes

To elevate your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings, dust them lightly with a sprinkle of cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top of the frosting. Edible gold or silver glitter also adds a whimsical touch, perfect for celebrations. Crushed candy canes pressed into the frosting edges bring a refreshing peppermint crunch that pairs perfectly with the warm spice flavors.

Side Dishes

These sandwich cookies shine beautifully alongside a steaming mug of spiced chai or classic hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. For adults, a small glass of dark rum or creamy eggnog can complement the spices and frostings. Serving them with fresh citrus slices or a fruit compote adds a bright contrast to the richness, balancing every bite deliciously.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings a centerpiece by stacking them in a decorative jar wrapped with a festive ribbon. Or arrange them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by pine sprigs and cinnamon sticks for a seasonal vibe. If you’re gifting, wrap them individually in parchment paper tied with twine—your friends will adore this thoughtful homemade treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings stay fresh for up to 5 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and avoid exposing them to heat or direct sunlight to preserve the frosting’s silky texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either as assembled sandwiches or just the baked cookies alone. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before adding fresh frosting, if desired.

Reheating

While these cookies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, warming them gently for about 10 seconds in the microwave can revive that freshly baked softness—just be careful not to melt the frosting too much. Alternatively, warming a pair in your hand helps release those cozy aromas without affecting their structural charm.

FAQs

Can I substitute gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup is your best bet. Just be aware the texture might be slightly different—sometimes a bit more delicate—but still deliciously spiced.

Is it necessary to chill the cookie dough?

Chilling the dough is highly recommended because it helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

Can I make the frosting without eggnog?

Yes! If you don’t have eggnog on hand, you can substitute with milk or heavy cream mixed with a pinch of ground nutmeg and cinnamon to mimic the flavor. It won’t be quite the same, but still tasty!

How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

If your frosting feels too soft, add more sifted icing sugar a little at a time until the right consistency is reached. Chilling the frosting briefly in the fridge also firms it up nicely before assembling.

Can I store these cookies in the fridge?

You can refrigerate them if your kitchen is warm, but bring them to room temperature before serving so the frosting isn’t too firm and the flavors can really shine.

Final Thoughts

These Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frostings are a true celebration in cookie form, marrying spicy warmth with creamy sweetness in a way that’s just unbeatable. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe promises cozy moments and plenty of smiles. So, grab your apron and give these delightful sandwich cookies a try—you won’t regret it!

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