Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

A delightful treat awaits you with Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies! These cookies combine the warmth of ginger and cinnamon with the bright zest of orange, creating a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want a sweet snack, these cookies will impress everyone. Their chewy center and crunchy edges make them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices and orange zest creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 48 cookies, they’re great for parties, gifts, or just to enjoy at home.
• Versatile Enjoyment: These cookies are perfect for any season and pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients easy and ensures a fluffy texture in the dough.
• Baking sheets: Provide a sturdy base for your cookies while allowing even heat distribution.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze.

Ingredients

A luscious combination of crunchy edges and a moist, chewy centre, this delectable cookie melds the spices of ginger and cinnamon with orange zest.

Ingredients:
– 170 g (6 oz or 1 1/2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
– 150 g (6 oz or 3/4 c) granulated sugar
– 50 g (2 oz or 1/4 c) brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 80 g (2 oz or 1/4 c) molasses
– 4 tsp grated orange zest (rind from one large orange)
– 12 g (15 ml or 1 tbsp) grated gingerroot
– 240 g (16 oz or 2 c) all purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 55 g (2 oz or 1/4 c) crystallized ginger, roughly chopped

How to Make Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, mixing well.
3. Slowly incorporate the molasses, orange zest, and gingerroot, mixing until everything is combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture in two portions, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean cloth. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until firm.

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Once chilled:
1. Shape the dough into balls about an inch in diameter.
2. Place a small piece of candied ginger in each ball before placing them on lined baking sheets, leaving about two inches between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until edges are firm but centers remain soft. Remove from oven and transfer to cooling racks.

Enjoy your delicious Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

These Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies are not just a treat on their own; they can be paired with various accompaniments to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. The spices in the cookies complement the warmth of the beverages perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. The contrast of warm and cold is irresistible!

Festive Dessert Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a festive platter with other baked goods like brownies and fruit tarts for a colorful dessert display at gatherings.

Yogurt Parfait

• Crumble these cookies over yogurt with fresh fruits for a quick and tasty parfait that combines flavors and textures beautifully.

Gift Packs

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes as homemade gifts. They make thoughtful treats for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

Getting the perfect texture and flavor in your Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies is easy with a few tips. Follow these suggestions for outstanding results.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a light and fluffy mixture, leading to better cookie texture.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Using precise measurements ensures consistent taste and texture in each batch.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies, as removing them when the edges are firm will maintain a chewy center.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger or cinnamon to suit your taste preference, enhancing the cookie’s spiciness.
• Store properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

Serving side dishes alongside your Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies can enhance your dessert table. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Chai Tea
   A fragrant blend of spices that pairs well with the flavors of the cookies, creating a cozy combination.
2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Coconut Milk Pudding
   Creamy and subtly sweet, this pudding complements the spicy notes of the cookies beautifully.
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   Juicy strawberries dipped in rich chocolate add an elegant touch that contrasts nicely with ginger flavors.
5. Vanilla Custard
   Smooth custard offers a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunchiness of the cookies.
6. Pumpkin Spice Latte
   This seasonal drink enhances the warm spice profile, making it an ideal pairing during fall gatherings.
7. Nut Mix
   A selection of roasted nuts provides a crunchy contrast while balancing sweetness with nuttiness.
8. Honey Drizzled Ricotta
   Creamy ricotta cheese drizzled with honey creates a delightful dip that works well with cookie crumbles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, there are several common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the chill time: Failing to chill the dough can result in cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and textures. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups accurately for best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined, especially after adding the flour mixture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven can vary slightly, affecting bake time. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Neglecting to cool on racks: Cool cookies on wire racks rather than on the baking sheet. This prevents them from becoming soggy from steam.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies:

Can I use different sugars?

Yes, you can experiment with alternative sugars like coconut sugar or honey, but this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

How can I make these cookies spicier?

To increase the spice level, consider adding extra grated ginger or incorporating ground black pepper into your dry ingredients.

What if I don’t have crystallized ginger?

You can substitute crystallized ginger with additional grated fresh ginger or omit it entirely if unavailable.

Can I customize these cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or chocolate chips based on your preference while keeping the core flavors intact.

How long do these cookies last?

Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies are not only flavorful but also versatile. Their sweet and spicy profile makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins, such as nuts or dried fruits, ensuring each batch is uniquely yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 48 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, where the warmth of ginger meets the bright zest of orange. These cookies are not only easy to make but also yield a generous batch, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an everyday treat. With their chewy centers and crunchy edges, each bite offers a unique flavor experience that will elevate your dessert game. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, making them a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 170 g (1 1/2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
• 150 g granulated sugar
• 50 g brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 80 g molasses
• 4 tsp grated orange zest
• 12 g grated gingerroot
• 240 g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 55 g crystallized ginger, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, mixing well.
3. Gradually incorporate the molasses, orange zest, and gingerroot until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until well blended.
5. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
6. Shape the dough into balls about one inch in diameter and place on lined baking sheets with space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain soft. Transfer to cooling racks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 30g)
• Calories: 132
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 58mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 16mg