Delicious Gluten-Free Gingersnap Cookies Recipe
Attention all ginger lovers! Do you crave a sweet and spicy snack that won’t break the bank or your dietary restrictions? Then look no further than these delicious gluten-free gingersnaps that are sure to satisfy your cravings without overpowering your taste buds.
As a nutritionist and food blogger, I understand the need for healthy alternatives that still provide the flavor profile we all love. That’s why I’ve created this recipe that not only meets dietary restrictions such as being gluten-free and dairy-free but also delivers the soft and chewy texture we’ve come to expect from a traditional ginger snap cookie.
Ginger is a versatile spice that has been used in cuisine for thousands of years due to its health benefits and bold taste. Whether you’re a fan of gingerbread, gingersnaps, or anything in between, this recipe will have you coming back for more. And with just a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to make these cookies at home without ever having to step foot in a specialty store.
In this article, I’ll be sharing my recipe for gluten-free gingersnaps along with tips on how to achieve perfect results every time. It’s time to indulge in a guilt-free treat that’ll leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you craving the warm, spicy sensation of a gingersnap cookie but can’t enjoy them due to dietary restrictions? Well, fear not my friends, because these gluten-free gingersnaps are just what you need to fill that void.
Made with a special blend of gluten-free flours and light molasses, these cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with ginger flavor. The combination of cinnamon, clove, and ginger creates the perfect balance of sweetness and spice that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
But what really sets these gingersnaps apart is their versatility. Not only are they gluten-free, but they’re also dairy-free and can easily be made vegan by using coconut oil instead of butter-flavored shortening. No matter what your dietary needs are, everyone can enjoy the delicious taste of these cookies without sacrificing flavor or texture.
So whether you’re sitting by the fire on a chilly night or need a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings, these gluten-free gingersnaps will not disappoint. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for giving them a healthy and indulgent treat. So go ahead and bake yourself a batch- you won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Let’s dive into the ingredient list, shall we? To make these gluten-free gingersnaps, you’ll need the following:
- Almond flour: Add protein and fiber to your cookies.
- Gluten-free flour blend: A combination of gluten-free flours that will create the texture and structure you want in these gingersnaps. Some good options are rice flour, oat flour, or a pre-made gluten-free flour blend.
- Xanthan gum: A binder that’s necessary for giving gluten-free baked goods the right texture.
- Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves: The spices that give these cookies their warm, cozy flavor.
- Baking soda and salt: Basic ingredients for any baking recipe.
- Sugar: A mix of granulated sugar and light molasses will give the cookies their characteristic sweetness and flavor.
- Butter-flavored shortening (or coconut oil): You’ll need a fat for these cookies, but to keep them dairy-free, we recommend using butter-flavored shortening or coconut oil.
Make sure to check your ingredients list before heading to the grocery store to ensure you have everything you need on hand.
The Recipe How-To
Now it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of making these gluten-free gingersnaps. Before beginning, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help them blend easily and produce a smooth batter.
Step 1: Combining the wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 3/4 cup of light molasses and 1/2 cup of flavor shortening. Beat on medium speed until mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 2: Mixing the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 and 1/4 cups of gluten-free flour blend, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of ground clove, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Step 3: Completing the batter
Add the dry mixture into the bowl with the wet mixture. Mix well until everything is well combined, using either your hands or your stand mixer. Once this is done, chill the dough for around an hour in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Preparing to bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) before you remove the dough from freezer or fridge. Prepare baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 5: Rolling out and shaping
Scoop dough by rounded tablespoons (roll or scoop with an ice cream scoop), and roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on your baking sheet about two inches (5 cm) apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
Step 6: Baking
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for roughly 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Step 7: Cooling and storing
Once baked, remove ginger snaps from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy these soft and chewy gluten-free gingersnaps!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this gluten-free gingersnaps recipe is that it is highly adaptable to your dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:
– Gluten-Free Flour: You can use any gluten-free flour blend you prefer, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent. A combination of rice flour, almond flour, and oat flour works well.
– Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or another dairy-free butter substitute instead of the butter-flavored shortening. You can also use vegan butter substitutes.
– Vegan Options: This recipe already calls for an egg substitute, but take it a step further by using a flax or chia egg instead. You can also try using organic cane sugar or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
– Brown Sugar: If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, make your own by mixing 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon molasses.
– Spices: Experiment with different spices to make your gingersnaps unique. Try cardamom, allspice, or nutmeg in place of cinnamon and clove.
– Fresh Ginger: For an extra ginger kick, add a teaspoon or two of finely grated fresh ginger to the dough.
By making these substitutions and variations you can create different flavors while maintaining healthy ingredients. Selecting the right substitute can dramatically improve the taste or dietary value so be creative in making it!
Serving and Pairing
Let’s talk about serving and pairing these amazing gluten-free gingersnaps! These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy evening at home to a fancy gathering with friends. They have a rich, warm flavor that pairs well with a variety of drinks.
For a simple snack or dessert, serve these ginger snaps with a tall glass of cold almond milk or hot tea. The contrast between the spicy ginger and cool, creamy beverage is absolutely delightful. If you’re feeling indulgent, try dipping your cookies in chocolate sauce for an extra decadent treat.
If you’re serving these cookies at a get-together, consider pairing them with a cheese plate or charcuterie board. The buttery, spicy flavor of the cookies pairs well with sharp cheeses like cheddar or asiago. Add some fresh fruit and nuts for a complete appetizer spread.
For a holiday party or special occasion, why not make mini ice cream sandwiches? Simply scoop some vanilla ice cream between two ginger snaps and roll the edges in chopped nuts or shredded coconut. These little bites are sure to be a crowd pleaser!
No matter how you choose to serve these gluten-free gingersnaps, they’re sure to be a hit. Their soft, chewy texture and bold spice flavors make them a perfect addition to any menu. So go ahead – indulge in some tasty treats!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
So, you’ve mastered the art of making these delicious gluten-free gingersnaps. Now, what’s the best way to store them to maintain their delectable flavor and texture?
Firstly, let’s talk about make-ahead options. If you’re making these cookies ahead of time for a party or holiday gathering, it’s important to store them properly so they stay fresh. You can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If you want to make the cookies themselves ahead of time, bake them as directed and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
When it comes to storing your gingersnaps, it’s best to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing them in the fridge or freezer as this may cause them to become overly hard or dry.
If you’re looking to reheat these cookies, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up. However, if they have been stored for a while and have become slightly hardened, you can revive their chewy texture by placing a slice of bread or a damp paper towel in the container with the cookies overnight.
Lastly, if you plan on shipping these tasty treats or taking them on-the-go, make sure to pack them tightly in an airtight container or cookie tin with parchment paper between each layer. This will help maintain their shape and flavor during transport.
So go ahead and get baking knowing that you can store and reheat your gluten-free gingersnaps easily!
Tips for Perfect Results
Gluten-free baking can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some tips to help you achieve perfect results with these gluten-free gingersnaps! Here are some tips and tricks that will make your ginger snaps recipe go by smoothly.
1. Use Xanthan Gum: Adding xanthan gum to the gluten-free flour blend is essential for binding the ingredients together, giving structure and elasticity to the cookies. If you want a much denser cookie, use less Xanthan gum.
2. Measure accurately: Precise measurements are imperative in gluten-free baking. Make sure you measure your ingredients properly – either by weight or using measuring cups and leveling them off accurately. Too much flour or too little liquid can wreak havoc on your recipe.
3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and butter will mix more evenly and create a lighter crumb texture in your cookies. Be sure to take them out of the refrigerator at least an hour before baking or microwave them briefly for a few seconds, though be careful not to overheat.
4. Chill Your Dough: Chilling your dough for at least 30 minutes prior to baking them creates really good results in gluten-free recipes as it firms the fat and makes handling easier.
5. Monitor Oven Temperature: Always check oven temperature with an oven thermometer as oven temperature affects your final outcome in a baking assignment. A lower temperature for a longer time usually equates baked goods with that moist Chewy cente.
6. Don’t Over Bake: Gluten-free cookies can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on them and remove them promptly from the oven to avoid cracking or over-browning.
7. Cornstarch for Extra Light Cookies: You could replace some of your grain-based gluten-free flours with cornstarch or use almond flour instead of all-purpose, which provides tender moisture from its nutty composition.
Follow these tips, stick to the recipe and make yourself some of the softest, chewiest and most scrumptious gluten-free gingersnaps you have ever had.
FAQ
Now that you have learned how to make these delicious Gluten-Free Gingersnaps and have all the tips for perfect results, it’s time to address some of the most common questions and concerns about this recipe. In this section, we will address various FAQs that arise when making Ginger Snaps or gluten-free cookies in general. So, hold onto your apron strings, here are the answers to all your burning queries!
Does Trader Joe’s have gluten free ginger snaps?
Discovering the nutrition facts and analysis of Trader Joe’s Ginger Snaps that are gluten-free using Fooducate.
Do ginger snaps contain gluten?
If you’re an avid baker, you might be wondering about the distinctions between gingersnaps and molasses cookies. While both treats are rich in ginger and molasses, they differ in texture and ingredients. Notably, gingersnaps contain wheat flour, which makes them unsuitable for those with gluten intolerances. On the other hand, molasses cookies are softer and chewier, and they rely more heavily on molasses as a sweetener.
Why didn t my gingersnaps crack?
If your molasses cookies are failing to develop those beautifully crackled tops, there may be a few underlying reasons. One possibility is that your baking soda is past its prime. Another factor to consider is whether or not you have creamed the butter for long enough, as this step is essential for creating air pockets that help the baking soda do its job. Over-mixing the dough can also create issues by developing gluten and leaving the dough too tough to crack in that distinctive way.
What’s the difference between gingerbread and gingersnaps?
When it comes to gingerbread and gingersnaps, the baking time plays a critical role in achieving the desired texture. While gingersnaps require a longer baking time to achieve that signature crispness, gingerbread cookies tend to be a bit chewier. Additionally, gingerbread cookies are traditionally cut into different shapes, such as gingerbread men and other holiday figures.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these gluten-free gingersnaps are not only delicious and easy to make, but they are also healthy and nutritious. With the use of organic, gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients, you can still have your favorite cookies without compromising your health. These tips and recommendations will help you achieve perfect results every time you make them. So go ahead, try out this recipe and indulge in soft, chewy, vegan ginger snaps without any guilt or hesitation. You deserve it!
Gluten Free Gingersnaps! Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter flavor shortening
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup light molasses
- 1 egg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon clove
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups gluten-free flour
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
Instructions
- Sift together dry ingredients. Cream shortening and sugar. Beat in molasses. Add egg. Mix only until mixed inches Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture. IF the dough seems sticky add 1/4 Celsius more flour mix.
- Roll into small balls. Dip in sugar and place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 370° for 8 – 10 minutes.