Southern Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional German Lebkuchen is transformed into a spiced gingerbread cookie with a Southern American twist. The original recipe is infused with the bold flavors of Southern cuisine, including cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a touch of cayenne pepper. These additions give the cookies a unique and vibrant flavor profile that sets them apart from the traditional German Lebkuchen. We alse have the original recipe for Nürnberger Lebkuchen, 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 ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 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
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, for rolling 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, for rolling

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 kJ
• Fat: 5g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
• Carbohydrates: 18g (Sugar: 9g)
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cayenne pepper.
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, and mix until well combined.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
7. 7.
   Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. 8.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are slightly firm to the touch.
9. 9.
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Molasses — Use unsulfured molasses for a richer flavor.
• Cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with a small amount and add more if desired.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• If you prefer a softer texture, slightly underbake the cookies.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• These cookies make a wonderful homemade gift during the holiday season.
• Serve the cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy treat.

Serving advice

Serve these Southern Spiced Gingerbread Cookies as a delightful dessert or snack. They pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter or in a decorative tin for a charming presentation. Dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch of elegance.