Ingredients and Weight:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 grams)
- Gingerbread spice mix: 1 tablespoon (or according to preference)
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 grams)
- Brown sugar: 1/2 cup (packed, 125 grams)
- Butter, softened: 1 cup (2 sticks, 225 grams)
- Eggs: 3 large
- Ginger, fresh or dried: 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger or 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Walnuts or other nuts: 1 cup, chopped (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 30-35 minutes
- Total: About 1 hour and 5 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and both sugars until well mixed and smooth.
- Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the gingerbread spice mix and salt.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing well to combine.
- If using, add the chopped nuts and mix gently.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about ½ inch (1-2 cm).
- Cut the dough into strips or desired shapes using a sharp knife or cookie cutter.
- Place on baking sheets and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown, rotating the sheets halfway through for even baking.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: About 300-350 per serving (depending on size and ingredients used)
Fat: 14-18 grams
Carbohydrates: 45-55 grams
Protein: 4-6 grams
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and their quantities.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Classic American gingerbread flavor with a crunchy exterior and slightly chewy interior.
- Great as a standalone cookie or paired with coffee or tea.
- Can be enjoyed during any time of the year, not just during the holidays.
User Comments:
- "These gingerbread biscotti are fantastic! The perfect balance of sweet and spicy." - John Doe, New York City, USA.
- "My family loves these cookies during the winter holidays! They make the house smell so good." - Jane Smith, San Francisco, USA.
- "I added chocolate chips to mine and they were a hit! So many delicious variations possible." - Michael Johnson, Boston, USA.
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to use softened butter and room-temperature eggs for best results in mixing the dough.
- Adjust the amount of gingerbread spice mix according to your preference for a stronger or milder flavor.
- For a more authentic touch, use fresh ginger that has been grated or zested.