Name: Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Fluffy Buttercream Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 51 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and flavor; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens and provides structure; can swap with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (Contributes moisture and caramel notes; ideally, use granulated sugar if unavailable.); 1 large Egg (Binds ingredients and ensures tenderness; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.); 1/2 cup Dark Molasses (Essential for that classic gingerbread flavor; regular molasses can be used as a substitute.); 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (The base for the cookie structure; opt for a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.); 1 tablespoon Ground Ginger (The key spice that imparts flavor; freshly grated ginger offers a fresher taste.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Provides that warm, comforting aroma and taste.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (A crucial leavening agent for fluffiness; avoid substitutions unless necessary.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Enhances the spiciness; feel free to tweak the amount based on your preference.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Offers a robust and aromatic flavor; adjust to your taste.); 1/4 teaspoon Fine Salt (Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and thickens the buttercream frosting for a delightful finish.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds a harmonious layer of sweetness in the frosting.); 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream or Milk (Used to adjust the frosting consistency; non-dairy milk works as a substitute.); White Sanding Sugar or Granulated Sugar (For rolling the cookies, enhancing their visual appeal.)

As I carefully unbox the holiday decorations, I’m enveloped by the sweet, spicy aroma of cinnamon and ginger that dances through the air, transporting me straight to my childhood kitchen. It’s the perfect moment to whip up a batch of Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with Fluffy Buttercream Frosting! These delightful holiday cookies strike the ideal balance between soft and chewy, making them irresistible to everyone at the table. Not only are they a fun baking project to get the whole family involved, but they also serve as a charming festive treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Plus, the best part? You can easily switch up the dough size and frosting flavors to suit your taste. Are you ready to spread some holiday cheer and fill your home with the delightful scents of spiced gingerbread? Let’s dive into this joyful recipe together!

Why are Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: These cookies pack a delightful punch of warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, creating a taste that embodies the holiday spirit and will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Family Fun: Baking these gingerbread sandwich cookies is a perfect way to spend time with loved ones during the holidays, allowing for creativity in dough shapes and frosting designs.

Flexible Options: Easily adjust the size of your cookies or switch up the frosting flavors, like a cream cheese option for a twist.

Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make wonderful edible gifts, neatly packed in boxes or jars that spread cheer as well as flavor.

Memorable Experience: As the aroma fills your kitchen, it not only evokes memories but creates new ones, making this recipe a cherished holiday tradition in your home.

For a different sweet treat to explore, don’t miss out on our delicious Brown Butter Cookies!

Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies Ingredients

• To create these delicious Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies, gather these essential ingredients!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and provides structure; can swap with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and caramel notes; ideally, use granulated sugar if unavailable.
Egg – Binds ingredients and ensures tenderness; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Dark Molasses – Essential for that classic gingerbread flavor; regular molasses can be used as a substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – The base for the cookie structure; opt for a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.
Ground Ginger – The key spice that imparts flavor; freshly grated ginger offers a fresher taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides that warm, comforting aroma and taste.
Baking Soda – A crucial leavening agent for fluffiness; avoid substitutions unless necessary.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the spiciness; feel free to tweak the amount based on your preference.
Ground Cloves – Offers a robust and aromatic flavor; adjust to your taste.
Fine Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.

For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream frosting for a delightful finish.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a harmonious layer of sweetness in the frosting.
Heavy Cream or Milk – Used to adjust the frosting consistency; non-dairy milk works as a substitute.

For the Coating

White Sanding Sugar or Granulated Sugar – For rolling the cookies, enhancing their visual appeal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats, ensuring an easy cleanup later. This preparation sets the scene for baking your delightful Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies, so gather your tools and ingredients close to create a seamless workflow.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes lighter in color and fluffy. This step is key to building the rich texture of your cookies, setting a sweet foundation for the blend of spices to come.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Molasses
Next, add 1 large egg and 1/2 cup of dark molasses to your creamy mixture. Mix on low speed until well combined, ensuring to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. The egg adds binding and moisture, while the molasses infuses that signature gingerbread flavor, making your dough wonderfully aromatic.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Gradually mix this dry mix into the wet ingredients on low speed until just incorporated. The dough should be well blended, giving you the fragrant spice anticipation of your Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape
With a cookie scoop, portion out 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll each ball in white sanding sugar or granulated sugar for a sparkling finish. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows them to spread and maintain their lovely shapes while baking, giving you perfectly rounded cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should look set but slightly soft in the centers. Remove the sheets from the oven and gently flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spatula while they are warm. Allow them to cool on the wire rack for about 10 minutes before transferring them to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cookies are cooling, prepare your fluffy buttercream frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, alternating with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency as needed for the perfect spreadability.

Step 8: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
To assemble your lovely Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies, take one cooled cookie and pipe a generous amount of frosting onto its flat side. Top it with another cookie, pressing gently to create a delightful sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are frosted and combined, creating sweet treasures ready to be enjoyed and shared!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies

Fresh Spices: Always use fresh spices for optimal flavor; stale spices can dull the vibrant taste of your gingerbread sandwich cookies.
Uniform Sizes: Aim for uniform cookie sizes to ensure even baking; inconsistent sizes may result in some cookies being over or undercooked.
Chill Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it for 15-30 minutes before scooping; this helps in shaping and rolling the cookies.
Watch Baking Time: Avoid over-baking these cookies; they should look soft in the center when you remove them from the oven, as they’ll firm up while cooling.
Creative Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with frosting alternatives; consider a cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist on your gingerbread sandwich cookies.

What to Serve with Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies

These delightful treats are perfect for sharing and pairing, adding a festive touch to your holiday gatherings.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey flavor of hot cocoa pairs beautifully with the spiced gingerbread, making for a cozy treat. Stir in a splash of vanilla for an extra touch of warmth.
Festive Fruit Platter: A bright platter of seasonal fruits like pomegranates, mandarins, and pear slices provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. It adds vibrant color and nutrients to your dessert spread.
Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea complement the gingerbread’s flavors while providing a soothing drink option. It’s great for dipping or sipping alongside your cookies.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink, with its creamy, rich taste, creates a delightful pairing with the gingerbread sandwich cookies. Consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flair.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool and creamy element that pairs perfectly with the warmth of the gingerbread. The melting ice cream creates a delightful flavor combination.
Peppermint Bark: The bright crunch of peppermint bark offers a festive touch that enhances the gingerbread’s spices. It’s a fun way to embrace the holiday spirit while providing a tasty contrast in texture.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies can take your dessert experience to the next level. The sweetness of caramel complements the spices of the cookies beautifully, making every bite an indulgent treat.
Hot Apple Cider: Serve hot apple cider spiced with cinnamon and cloves, echoing your cookies’ flavors. This comforting beverage warms your hands and soul, making it a perfect pairing for holiday festivities.

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. This keeps the dough fresh and ready for baking at your convenience. The frosted cookies can be made and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature for optimal taste and texture. To maintain their delightful softness, ensure they are completely cooled before stacking. When you’re ready to serve, simply enjoy them as is or chill them slightly for a refreshing twist! These make-ahead tips allow you to enjoy the festivities without last-minute stress.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store cookies in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to 5 days; make sure they are in a sealed container.
Freezer: Unfilled gingerbread cookies can be frozen for up to 1 month; wrap each cookie individually and then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw before adding frosting.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, gently microwave them for 10-15 seconds before serving to bring back that fresh-baked goodness.

Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies Variations

Customize your Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies with delightful twists that will make each batch uniquely yours!

Mini Cookies: Make small sandwiches by halving the dough size, creating bite-sized delights perfect for sharing.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap buttercream for tangy cream cheese frosting to give a deliciously rich flavor contrast.
Spiced Orange Frosting: Add orange zest to the buttercream for a citrusy twist that brightens each bite.
Decorative Icing: Use royal icing instead of buttercream for a glossy finish; perfect for a decorative touch during holidays.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over completed cookies for a decadent and rich enhancement.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture.
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Substitute some of the ginger and cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal flair that brings fall flavors to life.

For more sweet ideas like Honey Cookies Chewy or savory treats like a Tuna Melt Sandwich, explore the delicious recipes that can spark your culinary creativity!

Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness of ginger for my Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
When selecting ginger, look for a firm, smooth surface without any soft spots. Fresh ginger should feel heavy for its size and have a fragrant aroma. The skin can be slightly wrinkled but avoid pieces with dark spots or mold, as they can affect the cookie’s flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
You can keep your finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the refrigerator, where they will stay good for up to 5 days. Ensure they are sealed to maintain moisture and keep them soft.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies? How?
Absolutely! To freeze unfilled cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and add frosting before serving.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough turns out sticky and hard to manage, don’t worry! Chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to scoop and shape into cookies.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
Yes, for those with allergies, be cautious of common ingredients. This recipe contains gluten and eggs, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Always check the labels of your ingredients for potential allergens.

Can I use different flavors for the frosting on my Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies?
Very! You can swap out the traditional buttercream frosting for cream cheese frosting or even spice it up with flavored options like cinnamon or pumpkin spice. This allows you to create a custom spin on the classic cookie, catering to different tastes at your holiday gatherings.