Louisiana Creole Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Polish Toruńskie pierniki is transformed into a Louisiana Creole delight. The original recipe is infused with a unique blend of Creole spices, adding a smoky and spicy twist to the classic gingerbread flavor. The use of molasses and brown sugar enhances the caramel undertones, creating a richer and more complex taste. This adaptation brings together the best of both Polish and Creole cuisines, resulting in a truly unique and flavorful treat. We alse have the original recipe for Toruńskie pierniki, 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
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 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
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional) Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Nutrition

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

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and cayenne pepper.
2. 2.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm).
8. 8.
   Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each cookie.
9. 9.
   Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the remaining dough.
10. 10.
    Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
11. 11.
    Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. 12.
    Optional: Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
13. 13.
    Enjoy these Louisiana Creole spiced gingerbread cookies as a delightful treat!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Molasses — Use dark molasses for a richer flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute with light molasses or a combination of molasses and honey.
• Creole spice blend — If you can't find a pre-made Creole spice blend, you can make your own by combining equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe.
• If you prefer a softer texture, bake the cookies for slightly less time.
• These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
• To add a festive touch, decorate the cooled cookies with royal icing or colored sugar.
• Experiment with different cookie cutter shapes to make these cookies suitable for various occasions.

Serving advice

Serve these Louisiana Creole spiced gingerbread cookies as a delightful treat with a cup of hot tea or coffee. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon snacks, or as a homemade gift.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter or in a decorative tin. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also tie a ribbon around the tin or add a personalized gift tag for a special presentation.