Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

If you’re searching for the ultimate festive treat, look no further than these Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting. They’re a dazzling blend of warm spices and rich molasses, perfectly complemented by a creamy, festive eggnog frosting that will light up any holiday gathering. These sandwich cookies capture the essence of cozy winter flavors while delivering a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth—making them an irresistible must-bake for the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor Fusion: The combination of ginger, molasses, and eggnog frosting creates a holiday-inspired taste explosion that’s both nostalgic and unique.
• Perfectly Soft and Chewy: Each cookie is tender yet sturdy enough to hold the luscious frosting, giving you the perfect bite every time.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find holiday spices, this recipe doesn’t require any fancy or hard-to-get ingredients.
• Great for Gifting: These cookies are beautiful and can be easily packaged, making them an ideal homemade gift during the holidays.
• Customizable Frosting: The eggnog frosting can be adjusted for sweetness and spice, allowing you to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role—from the rich molasses that deepens the cookie’s flavor to the warm spices that make each bite festive and comforting, and finally, the creamy eggnog frosting that ties it all together. Here’s a run-down of the essentials that make these cookies shine.

• Molasses: Provides deep, rich sweetness and moisture for chewy cookies.
• Fresh Ground Ginger and Spices: Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg give these cookies their signature warming flavors.
• Butter and Brown Sugar: Add richness and balance the spices with subtle caramel notes.
• Eggs: Bind the dough while adding structure and softness.
• Flour and Baking Soda: Ensure the perfect texture and help the cookies rise beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances and rounds out the overall flavor.
• Eggnog: The star ingredient in the frosting that imparts a creamy, smooth holiday flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and adds its silky texture.
• Cream Cheese or Butter (for frosting): Optional, depending on whether you want a tangy or buttery frosting base.

Variations for Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

One of the great joys of this recipe is how easy it is to tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Try these variations to make your batch uniquely yours!

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend to make the cookies accessible for all.
• Vegan-Friendly: Use flax eggs and dairy-free butter, plus substitute the eggnog frosting with a coconut cream-based version.
• Spice It Up: Add extra ground ginger or include a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
• Chocolate Twist: Mix cocoa powder into the dough or add a thin layer of melted dark chocolate inside the sandwich.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and flavor.

How to Make Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming together softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy, then beat in the egg and molasses. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until everything is combined, forming a soft dough.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This step is crucial to ensure the cookies hold their shape and develop a better texture.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Cookies

Once chilled, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out evenly sized circles. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced well apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Allow them to cool completely on wire racks before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Eggnog Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter (or cream cheese) with powdered sugar until light and creamy. Slowly add eggnog, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. Add a dash of vanilla extract for extra depth.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Spread a generous dollop of eggnog frosting onto the bottom of one cookie, then sandwich it with another, gently pressing together. Repeat until all cookies are paired.

Pro Tips for Making Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

• Chill Thoroughly: Don’t skip chilling the dough—it prevents spreading and ensures tender cookies.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices make a big difference in flavor intensity.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Warm cookies will cause frosting to melt and slide off.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: Add more powdered sugar for thicker frosting or eggnog for a lighter spread.

How to Serve Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon, grated nutmeg, or even a few festive colored sugar crystals atop the frosting for an extra holiday sparkle and inviting aroma.

Side Dishes

Pair these sandwich cookies with classic holiday drinks like hot cocoa, mulled wine, or a glass of chilled eggnog to complement their cozy flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies in a decorative tin or stack them on a rustic wooden board, tied with a red ribbon, for a charming holiday gift or party centerpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft texture and fresh flavors.

Freezing

Freeze un-frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months; frost them after thawing to keep the frosting fresh.

Reheating

If you prefer a warm cookie, gently heat one in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—avoid heating too long or the frosting may melt and become runny.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought eggnog for the frosting?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly and makes the frosting easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor.

How long do the cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days at room temperature.

Is it okay to substitute cream cheese for butter in the frosting?

Yes, cream cheese adds a lovely tang and creaminess, balancing the sweetness of the powdered sugar and eggnog.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Definitely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour, and it will work wonderfully.

What’s the secret to chewy molasses cookies?

Chilling the dough thoroughly and avoiding overbaking are key factors that ensure your cookies stay soft and chewy.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and festive spirit that comes from baking Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookies with Eggnog Frosting. Whether you’re sharing with family, gifting to friends, or savoring one (or two!) yourself, these cookies bring the cozy flavors of the season to life. So grab your ingredients, dust off your rolling pin, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible scent of holiday magic.

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