Even though I enjoy making the most intricate pastries, my “go to” holiday favourites are always the ones with simple, flavourful ingredients. This is my absolute favourite gingerbread recipe! It bakes up with a wonderful crunch, and has an extra spicy zing because of the use of freshly grated ginger and black pepper. Some of my most cherished holiday memories are of making and decorating gingerbread houses with my niece and nephew. I can’t wait to do it again this Christmas season!!!
INGREDIENTS
- ½ lb unsalted butter at room temperature
- 2 cups white sugar
- 6.5 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 whole eggs
- 125 ml molasses
- 1 ½ tsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp white pepper
- ½ tbsp baking soda
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
METHOD
1. Mix the grated ginger, butter and white sugar in an electric mixer with the paddle attachment until thoroughly combined. Do not overmix or incorporate too much air, as this will cause the cookies to spread too much in the oven.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the eggs, molasses and vinegar with whisk.
3. Slowly add the egg mixture into the butter/sugar/ginger in a steady stream until fully incorporated.
4. In another bowl, sift together the flour, pepper, baking soda and cinnamon. Add this all at once into the dough and mix just to incorporate. Refrigerate at least one hour before rolling. Cut into desired shapes and bake at 375 F for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.