Bangladeshi Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have replaced the traditional pig-shaped Marranitos with classic gingerbread cookies. The original Mexican recipe uses lard, but we have substituted it with butter to suit the Bangladeshi cuisine. Additionally, we have incorporated Bangladeshi spices like cardamom and nutmeg to infuse the cookies with a unique flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Marranitos, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 9g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix well until combined.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. 6.
   Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. 7.
   Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your palm.
8. 8.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are slightly firm to the touch.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
• Molasses — Use unsulphured molasses for a rich and robust flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground cloves to the dough.
• If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, increase the amount of ground ginger to 1 teaspoon.
• Decorate the cookies with icing or colored sugar for a festive touch.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• These cookies make a wonderful homemade gift during the holiday season.

Serving advice

Serve the Bangladeshi Spiced Gingerbread Cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful snack. They are also perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat after a meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter or in a cookie jar to showcase their golden-brown color. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.