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Crackled Ginger Cookies

Crackled Ginger Cookies are soft and chewy with a burst of warming ginger, bright citrus from lemon zest and juice, and a hint of molasses for depth. The crackled exterior, coated with powdered sugar, gives them a beautiful and festive look. Perfect for tea time, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a sweet treat with a hint of spice.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Palabra clave Crackled Cookies;, Ginger Cookies, Holiday treats, Lemon Desserts, Molasses Cookies
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 120kcal

Ingredients

For the cookies:

  • ¾ cup unsalted butter softened (170 g)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar 150 g
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tablespoons lemon juice 60 ml
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 300 g
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons molasses 30 ml
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

For coating:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar 130 g

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  • Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  • Add wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and molasses. Mix until well combined.
  • Combine dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and grated ginger.
  • Mix wet and dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand with a spatula. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly combined. The dough will be soft but firm enough to roll.
  • Form the cookies: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow dish, then roll each ball thoroughly in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
  • Arrange and bake: Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the tops are crackled.
  • Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.