Gingerbread Cookie Frosting

Ingredients and Weight:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the frosting: 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla; food coloring (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus cooling time)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg, honey, and vanilla extract, and mix well.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop cookie dough by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.
6. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting.
7. For the frosting, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl and mix until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
8. Spread frosting onto cooled cookies and serve.

Nutritional Information: (per serving)

• Calories: Approx. 400-500 (depending on the size of cookies)
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g
• Protein: 5-7g

Dish Characteristics:

• The combination of gingerbread and frosting creates a sweet and spicy flavor that is popular in American cuisine.
• The use of simple ingredients makes it easy to prepare and access for people in the United States.
• The frosting adds a creamy and smooth texture to the crispy gingerbread cookies.

User Comments:

1. "These gingerbread cookies are amazing! The frosting is so creamy and delicious."
2. "Love the combination of flavors - sweet and spicy at the same time."
3. "Great dish for a winter holiday gathering. Everyone loved it!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use softened butter and cream cheese for a smooth mixture.
• Do not overbake the cookies, or they will become hard and crunchy.
• Adjust the amount of frosting according to preference.
• You can add different flavors or colors to the frosting for a more festive touch (e.g., adding cinnamon or peppermint extract).