Baking can transport us to simpler times, each aroma wafting from the oven a sweet reminder of childhood memories. Imagine a winter afternoon: the air is crisp, but your heart feels warm as you gather around with loved ones, the joy of togetherness filling the space. These Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Buttercream encapsulate that feeling perfectly, blending cozy spices with a zesty surprise that will leave you smiling.
Why make this recipe?
Embracing the holiday spirit is easy with these delightful gingerbread cookies. They strike a harmonious balance between rich spices and bright citrus, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are like little hugs, wrapped in flavors that celebrate the season.
How to make Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Buttercream
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 egg
- 1 cup sanding sugar (coarse sugar)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, slightly cold
- 3 cups powdered sugar (measured and then sifted)
- 1 tsp lemon extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
For the Cookies:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper, setting the stage for the delightful treats to come.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This fragrant mix is the heart and soul of your cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy—this will take about 3-5 minutes. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until the dough is smooth and dark. It might feel a bit sticky, but that’s perfect!
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This cooling step ensures your cookies maintain their shape when baked.
- Roll the chilled dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll them in sanding sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are firm. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
For the Lemon Buttercream:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the slightly cold unsalted butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, continuing to mix on a low speed until combined.
- Add the lemon extract, heavy whipping cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the buttercream is light, fluffy, and ready to bring a burst of zest to your cookies.
How to serve Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Buttercream
Take two of the gingerbread cookies and generously spread the lemon buttercream in between. Gently press them together, creating little sandwiches of joy. Consider presenting them on a festive platter, garnished with a sprinkle of additional sanding sugar or a twist of lemon zest for an added touch of elegance.
How to store Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Buttercream
These delightful cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh a bit longer, you can place them in the refrigerator, just remember to bring them back to room temperature before indulging!
Tips to make Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Buttercream
- Ensure your ingredients are at the right temperature; this will influence the texture of the cookies and buttercream.
- Don’t skip the chilling step for the dough—it’s vital for achieving beautifully shaped cookies.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to adjust the lemon extract to taste.
Variations
Feel free to swap out the lemon extract for orange or vanilla for a different spin! You could also add zest from the lemon for a more intense citrus experience.
FAQs
-
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the cookies will taste different and may be denser. Consider mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a healthier option. -
What can I use instead of molasses?
If molasses isn’t available, honey or maple syrup can serve as alternatives. However, the flavor and color will vary slightly. -
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies without the buttercream for up to three months. Thaw before filling with buttercream when ready to serve.
These Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Buttercream are more than just a treat; they are a celebration of warmth, flavor, and tradition. With every bite, you’ll feel the joy of the season, bringing a smile not just to your face but to all those around you. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the delightful magic of baking!
Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Buttercream
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the molasses and egg to the mixture, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until the dough is smooth.
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Roll chilled dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll them in sanding sugar.
- Place them on the lined baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are firm.
- Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the slightly cold unsalted butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Add the lemon extract, heavy whipping cream, and a pinch of salt; beat until fluffy.
- Take two gingerbread cookies and generously spread lemon buttercream in between.
- Press them together to create little sandwich cookies.
- Consider garnishing with additional sanding sugar or a twist of lemon zest.