Ginger Cream Pies

These Ginger Cream Pies are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of ginger and molasses in a chewy cookie sandwich, filled with fluffy vegan marshmallow cream. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. With their soft texture and rich taste, they offer a comforting dessert that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a warm, inviting flavor profile.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies have a soft and chewy consistency that makes each bite satisfying.
• Vegan-Friendly Filling: The creamy vegan marshmallow frosting adds a light and fluffy contrast to the dense cookies.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, these cookies are simple enough for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or cozy nights in with family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Ginger Cream Pies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie cutters (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively while preventing spills.
• Electric mixer: Makes whipping the butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light texture in the cookies.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking multiple cookies at once.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup molasses (cooking or fancy molasses work best)

For the Frosting

• 1/3 cup white sugar (or coarse sugar)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup vegan marshmallows cream (about 1/2 of a 7.5 ounce jar)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 – 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk or cream

How to Make Ginger Cream Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
* Whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.

In another bowl:
* Beat the unsalted butter and brown sugar until creamy.
* Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
* Gradually add in the molasses while continuing to mix.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies tender.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
On prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper:
* Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the sheets.
* Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are firm but centers look slightly underbaked.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a separate bowl:
* Beat softened butter until creamy.
* Add in vegan marshmallow cream, salt, and gradually mix in powdered sugar to achieve desired consistency.
Add milk as needed for smoothness.

Step 5: Assemble Your Ginger Cream Pies

Once cookies have cooled completely:
* Spread frosting on one cookie half and top with another cookie half.
Repeat until all cookies are assembled.

Enjoy your delicious Ginger Cream Pies!

How to Serve Ginger Cream Pies

Ginger Cream Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether at a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, these sweet sandwiches bring joy to any occasion.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair your Ginger Cream Pies with a warm cup of herbal tea for a comforting experience. The spices in the cookies complement the soothing flavors of the tea perfectly.

As a Festive Dessert Platter

• Arrange Ginger Cream Pies on a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats. This colorful display will impress your guests and offer them a variety of delightful options.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve Ginger Cream Pies with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears. The sweetness and crunch of the fruit balance the rich creaminess of the pies.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Bring Ginger Cream Pies to potlucks or holiday parties. They are easy to transport and are sure to be a hit among friends and family.

As Lunchbox Treats

• Add Ginger Cream Pies to your child’s lunchbox for a fun surprise. These cookies make for an enjoyable after-lunch treat that kids will love.

How to Perfect Ginger Cream Pies

Creating the perfect Ginger Cream Pies involves attention to detail and a few key techniques that elevate their flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices are fresh for maximum flavor impact. Old spices can dull the taste of your cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill before baking helps maintain their shape and enhances the texture.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be soft in the center when you take them out, as they will continue cooking on the baking sheet.

• Experiment with Fillings: While vegan marshmallow cream is delightful, try different fillings like whipped coconut cream or flavored frosting for variety.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly without compromising moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Ginger Cream Pies

To complement your Ginger Cream Pies, consider serving them with tasty side dishes that enhance their flavor profile while providing contrast.

1. Spiced Apple Compote: This warm dish adds sweetness and spice, making it an excellent accompaniment to the ginger flavor in the pies.

2. Cinnamon Roasted Nuts: A mix of nuts roasted with cinnamon adds crunch and complements the spices in your cookies beautifully.

3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some homemade caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence. It brings richness that pairs wonderfully with ginger.

4. Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and airy, this coconut cream provides a refreshing contrast to the dense ginger cookies.

5. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For chocolate lovers, melted dark chocolate offers a rich dip that takes these pies to another level.

6. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances out the spiciness while enhancing overall decadence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Ginger Cream Pies, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale spices – Fresh spices make a huge difference in flavor. Check expiration dates and use fresh ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Neglecting to chill – Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. If time allows, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Incorrect measuring – Accurate measurements are key to perfect cookies. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precise amounts.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can affect the mixing process. Let your butter soften and eggs warm up to room temperature before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Ginger Cream Pies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Ginger Cream Pies

• Freeze unfilled cookies or filled ones in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Reheating Ginger Cream Pies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place on a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ginger Cream Pies that might help you as you bake.

What makes Ginger Cream Pies so special?

Ginger Cream Pies combine the warmth of spices with creamy filling, creating a delightful balance of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I use different types of flour for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour. Just adjust liquid ingredients as needed.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges will look set while the centers remain soft. They will firm up as they cool down on the baking sheet.

Can I customize my Ginger Cream Pies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.

How long do Ginger Cream Pies last once made?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Ginger Cream Pies are a delicious treat that combines soft molasses cookies with fluffy filling. Their unique flavor profile makes them suitable for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday desserts. You can easily customize these pies by adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Enjoy making these delightful treats!