Description

These oversized ginger cookies combine a robust molasses flavor with a soft, fudgy center and a crackled, sugary crust. Developed with a focus on food chemistry, they offer a nostalgic holiday treat that stays remarkably tender for several days after baking.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
2.5 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup dark brown sugar
1/3 cup unsulphured molasses
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coarse sparkling sugar, for rolling

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Instructions

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, salt, ground ginger, and cloves in a medium bowl until the spices are evenly distributed.
In a large mixer bowl, beat the room-temperature butter with the granulated sugar and dark brown sugar on medium speed for about 2 minutes until creamy.
Add the molasses and beat until combined, then add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure a smooth emulsion.
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture, mixing just until the white streaks disappear to avoid over-developing gluten.
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flour to hydrate and the fats to firm up.
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Form the dough into 2-inch balls using a large scoop and roll each ball in coarse sugar.
Place the balls 3 inches apart on the prepared sheets and bake for 12 to 13 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

Notes

For the most consistent results, measure your flour by weight or use the spoon-and-level method to avoid a dry cookie. If you find your cookies are not spreading as much as desired, ensure your molasses is at room temperature before mixing and that your baking soda is fresh.

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 mins
Cook Time: 13 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American