Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

A delightful treat for any occasion, Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies offer a unique blend of flavors that are sure to impress. With a crunchy edge and a moist, chewy center, these cookies combine the warm spices of ginger and cinnamon with zesty orange. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as an everyday snack, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ginger and orange creates a refreshing yet spicy taste that is both comforting and exciting.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, making these cookies is straightforward and enjoyable.
• Versatile Treat: Whether for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, these cookies fit perfectly into any event.
• Batch Friendly: This recipe yields 48 cookies, making it ideal for sharing with friends or family.
• Chewy and Crunchy Texture: The contrast between the crunchy edges and soft center provides a delightful eating experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool efficiently mixes your ingredients to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets: These provide a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

A luscious combination of crunchy edges and a moist, chewy center, this delectable cookie melds the spices of ginger and cinnamon with orange zest.

For the Cookie Dough

• 170 g (6 oz or 1 1/2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
• 150 g (6 oz or 3/4 c) granulated sugar
• 50 g (2 oz or 1/4 c) brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 80 g (2 oz or 1/4 c) molasses
• 4 tsp grated orange zest (rind from one large orange)
• 12 g (15 ml or 1 tbsp) grated gingerroot

For the Dry Ingredients

• 240 g (16 oz or 2 c) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Garnish

• 55 g (2 oz or 1/4 c) crystallized ginger, roughly chopped

How to Make Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the cookie dough. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, mixing until well combined.
3. Pour in the molasses, grated orange zest, and gingerroot. Mix until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves until evenly mixed.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture in two portions. Beat well after each addition while scraping down the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover your cookie dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel:
– Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until firm enough to handle.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Once chilled:
1. Shape into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place a small piece of candied ginger into each ball before rolling them completely.
3. Arrange them on lined baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes:
– Watch for edges to become firm but ensure centers remain slightly soft.
– Remove from oven and transfer cookies to cooling racks once baked.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be enhanced with various serving suggestions. Try these ideas for a perfect pairing.

With Tea or Coffee

• Herbal Tea – The warmth of herbal tea complements the spices in the cookies.
• Black Coffee – A bold cup of black coffee balances the sweetness and spice.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Selection – Pair with mild cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese for a unique flavor contrast.
• Fruit Salad – Fresh fruits add a refreshing touch and enhance the cookie’s citrus notes.

For Gifting

• Gift Bags – Place cookies in decorative bags with a ribbon to create an appealing gift.
• Cookie Jars – Layer cookies in a jar for a charming presentation that also keeps them fresh.

How to Perfect Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, follow these essential tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter – This helps create a fluffy texture when creaming butter and sugars.
• Measure Carefully – Accurate measurements of flour and spices ensure balanced flavors.
• Chill the Dough – Chilling allows flavors to meld and helps shape the cookies more easily.
• Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on them; cookies continue to firm up as they cool on the rack.
• Add More Zest – For extra orange flavor, consider adding more grated orange zest to the dough.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

These side dishes pair wonderfully with Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, enhancing your overall dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to spicy cookies.
2. Coconut Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream adds richness without overpowering flavors.
3. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzling rich chocolate sauce over cookies creates an indulgent treat.
4. Candied Citrus Peels – These add an extra burst of citrus flavor that complements the orange zest in the cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with fruits and granola for a refreshing side option that balances sweetness.
6. Spiced Nuts – A mix of spiced nuts adds crunch and enhances the warm spice notes of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the right texture. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much while baking.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are key to perfect cookies. Use a kitchen scale for best results, especially for flour and sugar.
• Using Fresh Ginger Instead of Grated: Fresh ginger has a different potency than grated ginger. Always use freshly grated ginger for the best flavor in your Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined, and avoid beating too vigorously after adding dry ingredients.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; removing them when the edges are firm will ensure a chewy center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Cookies will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to three months.

Reheating Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about our Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies.

What makes Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies unique?

The unique blend of spices like ginger and cinnamon paired with orange zest creates an irresistible flavor profile that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes.

Can I customize my Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even swap some flour for whole grain options to enhance texture and flavor according to your preference.

How do I know when my Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies are done?

Look for firm edges and a slightly soft center. They will continue cooking after removed from the oven, so it’s better to err on the side of underbaking slightly.

What ingredients can I substitute in this recipe?

You can swap butter with plant-based margarine if you prefer dairy-free options. Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness level.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies are not only scrumptious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins or spices. Try making them today; they’ll surely become a favorite treat!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 48 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Spicy Orange Ginger Cookies, a perfect treat for any occasion! These cookies harmoniously blend zesty orange and warm spices, creating a unique taste that is both comforting and exciting. With crunchy edges and a chewy center, they are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to be enjoyed at gatherings or as an everyday snack. Whether paired with tea or gifted in charming bags, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your home. Experience the joy of baking with this simple recipe that yields 48 delicious cookies!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 170 g (6 oz) butter, at room temperature
• 150 g (6 oz) granulated sugar
• 50 g (2 oz) brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 80 g (2 oz) molasses
• 4 tsp grated orange zest
• 12 g (15 ml) grated gingerroot
• 240 g (16 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 55 g (2 oz) crystallized ginger, roughly chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix well.
3. Mix in the molasses, grated orange zest, and gingerroot until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients in two portions.
5. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes.
6. Shape into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place a piece of candied ginger inside before rolling them completely. Arrange on lined baking sheets.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain slightly soft. Cool on racks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: <5mg