Christmas Molasses and Ginger Cookies

Ingredients and Weight:

• All-purpose flour: 3 cups (360g)
• Ground ginger: 1 teaspoon (5g)
• Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (5g)
• Ground cloves: 1/4 teaspoon (1g)
• Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (1g)
• Baking soda: 1 teaspoon (5g)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g)
• Unsalted butter, softened: 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g)
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g)
• Large egg: 1
• Molasses: 1/2 cup (120ml)
• Hot water: 1/4 cup (60ml)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

10-12 minutes per batch

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Combine molasses and hot water in a small bowl. Gradually add molasses mixture to butter mixture, beating well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out cookies using any desired shape.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g

Dish Characteristics:

• Chewy and soft
• Warm and spicy
• Molasses aroma
• Ideal for Christmas gatherings

User Comments:

• "Perfect balance of spices, with a delightful molasses flavor."
• "These cookies are so festive and bring back childhood memories."
• "Easy to make and a crowd-pleaser at every Christmas party."
• "The perfect treat for a cold winter night."
• "I love the warm ginger and cinnamon flavors in these cookies."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Do not overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
• If the dough is too dry, add a splash of cold water.
• Let the cookies cool slightly before enjoying to prevent burning.