Gingerbread Cookies with Orange Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients and Weight:

For the Cookies: * All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) * Baking soda: 1 teaspoon (5 grams) * Ground ginger: 2 teaspoons (6 grams) * Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (3 grams) * Ground cloves: 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) * Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) * Unsalted butter, softened: 1 cup (2 sticks or 227 grams) * Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 grams) * Large egg: 1 * Molasses: 1/2 cup (118 milliliters)

For the Orange Buttercream Frosting: * Unsalted butter, softened: 1 cup (2 sticks or 227 grams) * Powdered sugar: 3 cups (360 grams) * Orange zest: 1 tablespoon (15 grams) * Orange juice: 2-3 tablespoons (30-45 milliliters)

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 10-12 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Easy-Medium)

Preparation Method Steps:

For the Cookies: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. 4. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 5. Beat in the egg and molasses. 6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. 7. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/4 inch (6 millimeters). 8. Cut out desired shapes with cookie cutters. 9. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. 10. Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Orange Buttercream Frosting: 1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. 2. Stir in the orange zest and enough orange juice to achieve desired consistency. 3. Frost cooled cookies and enjoy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Protein: 2 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Aromatic and flavorful gingerbread cookies with a warm and festive spice blend.
• Sweet and tangy orange buttercream frosting that complements the gingerbread flavors perfectly.
• Visually appealing with a variety of cookie shapes and a smooth, velvety frosting.

User Comments:

• "These cookies are so delicious and have a perfect balance of spice and sweetness."
• "The orange buttercream frosting is a delightful twist that takes these cookies to the next level."
• "I love how easy these cookies are to make, even with kids."
• "These cookies are perfect for holiday parties or as a special treat."
• "I highly recommend trying these Gingerbread Cookies with Orange Buttercream Frosting for a festive and flavorful experience."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• For a crispier cookie, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• To prevent the frosting from becoming too runny, add orange juice 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
• Decorate cookies with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or other festive garnishes.