As the first snowflakes of winter begin to twirl down from the sky, I find myself craving the warm, spicy flavors of the holidays. There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of ginger and molasses wafting through the kitchen. That’s why I can’t wait to share my recipe for Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with you. They’re a delightful twist on the traditional Christmas cookie, featuring soft and chewy gingerbread cookies sandwiched between swirls of fluffy, buttery frosting.
Whether you’re whipping these up for a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your holiday season. Plus, with their inviting aroma and simple preparation, they’re your ticket to creating cherished memories in the kitchen, one delicious bite at a time. Join me as we dive into this easy and delightful recipe that will quickly become a seasonal favorite!
Why are Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies a must-try?
Comforting Aroma: The scent of baking gingerbread fills your home with warmth, a true hallmark of the holiday season.
Soft and Chewy: Each cookie boasts a delightful texture, complemented by a fluffy buttercream filling.
Versatile Frosting: Customize your cookies with various frosting flavors, from classic vanilla to rich chocolate.
Quick to Make: These cookies come together in no time, perfect for last-minute holiday treats.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: They’re sure to win over guests young and old, making them ideal for festive gatherings.
Bake these delightful cookies this season and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere they create!
Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup) – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup) – Sweetens the dough and aids in browning; use coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Light Brown Sugar (1/4 cup) – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
• Egg (1 large) – Binds ingredients and helps with leavening; can substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Dark Molasses (1/4 cup) – Contributes a rich, deep flavor and color; substituting with honey or maple syrup will change the flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups) – Provides structure; for a gluten-free alternative, use GF flour blend.
• Ground Ginger (2 tsp) – Essential for that classic gingerbread flavor; ensure it’s fresh for maximum potency.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and spice; be cautious not to skip this key flavor.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Helps the cookies rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the holiday flavor profile; freshly grated offers the best taste.
• Ground Cloves (1/4 tsp) – Offers an aromatic touch; use sparingly for balance.
• Fine Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances all flavors in the cookies.
• White Sanding Sugar (1 cup) – For rolling cookies to create a sparkly crust.
For the Buttercream Frosting
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup) – Adds creaminess and richness; use vegan butter for dairy-free frosting.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Provides essential flavor; Tahitian or Madagascar vanilla can enhance complexity.
• Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sift for a smoother texture.
• Heavy Cream or Milk (2 Tbsp) – Adjusts frosting’s consistency; use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
How to Make Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
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Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes.
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Mix in the large egg and dark molasses until everything is well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
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Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl, whisking together all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and fine salt. Gradually sift or fold this mixture into the wet ingredients to form a thick dough.
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Scoop out approximately 24 cookie balls, each about 1.5 tablespoons in size. Roll them in white sanding sugar to create a sparkling crust and place them on the baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
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Bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes, or until they are set in the center. For a lovely finish, gently flatten each cookie with the bottom of a cup while they are still warm.
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Prepare the buttercream by beating together the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream until you reach your desired smooth and creamy consistency.
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Assemble the cookies by pairing similar-sized cookies, spreading frosting on one side of each, and then sandwiching them together.
Optional: Drizzle with a little more frosting for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies
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Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground ginger and spices are fresh for that vibrant gingerbread flavor. Stale spices can dull the taste.
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Uniform Cookie Sizes: Scoop dough consistently to ensure even baking. This prevents some cookies from becoming overbaked while others remain undercooked.
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Don’t Overbake: Check your cookies a minute or two before the timer goes off. They should be soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
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Allow Cooling Time: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet before transferring them to a rack. This helps them set properly and keeps them from breaking.
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Creative Frosting Techniques: Use a piping bag for swirls or designs when adding buttercream. A ziplock bag with the corner snipped off works well, too!
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Experiment with Sizes: Try making mini versions of these Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
As the festive scents of gingerbread fill your home, it’s time to create an enticing meal to complement these delightful treats.
- Hot Cocoa: The rich and creamy texture of hot cocoa mirrors the cozy warmth of the cookies, making for a delightful pairing.
- Eggnog: With its festive spices, eggnog enhances the holiday spirit, serving as a perfect drink alongside the sweet softness of gingerbread.
- Christmas Fruit Salad: A colorful assortment of vibrant fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ dense sweetness, keeping the palate lively.
- Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding aromatic notes that complement their flavors.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream serves as a luscious companion, enhancing the soft buttery frosting with each bite.
- Nutty Biscotti: Dipping slightly crumbly biscotti in your beverage adds a charming texture that pairs beautifully with the gingerbread’s chewiness.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The sweet and salty combination of chocolate-dipped pretzels creates a delicious contrast, adding fun to your holiday treat platter.
- Sugar Cookies: A platter of classic sugar cookies painted with festive colors offers a nostalgic taste that pairs wonderfully with the gingerbread.
- Ice Cream: Try a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream; it melts beautifully into the warm gingerbread flavors for pure indulgence.
Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful cookies with these fun variations!
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Mini Cookies: Create bite-sized treats by using a 3/4 Tbsp scoop for smaller portions.
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Flavored Frostings: Elevate the taste by trying cinnamon or cream cheese frosting for a delightful twist. It’s an exciting change that brings new dimensions to each bite!
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Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a decadent surprise with every curve of the cookie.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder into the dough for a gentle heat that beautifully complements the sweet ginger.
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Nuts & Seeds: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a hint of nuttiness. This variation adds delightful crunch to every chewy morsel!
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Dried Fruit: Mix in raisins or chopped dried cranberries to introduce a tangy sweetness that contrasts nicely with the spiced gingerbread.
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Icing Drizzle: Top the filled cookies with a simple icing drizzle made from powdered sugar and milk for a touch of sweetness and visual flair.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to suit dietary needs without sacrificing texture or flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your gingerbread sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain their soft and chewy texture.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep them fresh a little longer, move them to the fridge where they can last up to 5 days. Just make sure to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze unfilled cookies for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can bake fresh cookies on demand!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen gingerbread cookies, let them thaw at room temperature, then warm them slightly in the oven for a cozy treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday baking easier! You can make the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For best results, roll the dough into balls and coat them in sanding sugar before refrigerating. Meanwhile, the buttercream can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days; just give it a good stir to restore its creaminess before frosting your cookies. When you’re ready to serve, bake the cookies fresh and assemble them with the frosting for a delightful treat that will remain just as delicious as when first made!
Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, look for fresh spices like ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, as they should have a strong aroma—this ensures those wonderful flavors shine through in your cookies. For the butter, grab unsalted to control the saltiness better. Choose dark molasses for its rich flavor; avoid the runny light varieties for this recipe!
How should I store Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies and for how long?
You can store your tasty gingerbread sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days! Just keep in mind they’ll need a little time to come back to room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Can I freeze Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing, I recommend doing so without the frosting. Wrap unfilled cookies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and fill them with frosting as desired.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky or too dry?
Very good question! If your dough is too sticky, it might mean you need to incorporate a bit more flour—try adding a tablespoon at a time until it holds together nicely. On the other hand, if your dough is too dry and crumbly, a small splash of milk can help bring it back to a nice, workable consistency. Ensure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately for the best result!
Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s essential to note that these Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies contain common allergens like eggs and dairy, which are not suitable for certain people and pets, especially dogs. If you’re baking for someone with specific allergies, consider using egg substitutes (like flax eggs) and vegan butter for a safer alternative.
What variations can I try with my Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
The more, the merrier! You can change up the frosting flavors by trying cinnamon or cream cheese frosting for a delightful twist. Additionally, consider making mini cookies using a smaller scoop for bite-sized treats—perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea!
Irresistibly Chewy Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies to Brighten Your Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Mix in the large egg and dark molasses until everything is well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl, whisking together all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and fine salt. Gradually sift or fold this mixture into the wet ingredients to form a thick dough.
- Scoop out approximately 24 cookie balls, each about 1.5 tablespoons in size. Roll them in white sanding sugar to create a sparkling crust and place them on the baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes, or until they are set in the center. For a lovely finish, gently flatten each cookie with the bottom of a cup while they are still warm.
- Prepare the buttercream by beating together the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream until you reach your desired smooth and creamy consistency.
- Assemble the cookies by pairing similar-sized cookies, spreading frosting on one side of each, and then sandwiching them together.