Spice Infusion Honey Molasses Cookies

Sure, let’s delve into the detailed preparation of these delightful Spice Cookies without white sugar! These cookies promise a warm, aromatic blend of spices combined with wholesome ingredients that make them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Spice Cookies (No White Sugar Included!)

Recipe Overview:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 dozen cookies

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Spice Cookies:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Honey Mixture:

   • In a small pot over medium heat, combine the honey, butter, and light molasses.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
   • Once boiled, remove from heat and let it cool for about 3 minutes.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:

   • While the honey mixture is cooling, in a large bowl, combine the unbleached white flour, orange zest, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cardamom, and baking soda.
   • Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

3. Mix the Dough:

   • Gradually pour the slightly cooled honey mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
   • Stir until a dough forms and all ingredients are well combined. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.

4. Chill the Dough:

   • Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
   • Roll each portion into a log shape and wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap.
   • Refrigerate the wrapped logs for at least 2 to 3 hours, or ideally overnight. Chilling the dough will help it firm up and enhance the flavors.

5. Preheat the Oven:

   • When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.

6. Shape and Bake:

   • Lightly flour a work surface and unwrap one chilled dough log at a time.
   • Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
   • Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough. Traditional shapes like stars, hearts, or circles work well for these spice cookies.
   • Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

7. Bake the Cookies:

   • Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to firm up. The cookies should still be slightly soft in the center.
   • Avoid overbaking to retain their chewy texture.

8. Cool and Enjoy:

   • Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
   • Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely before serving or storing.

Tips for Success:

• Chilling the Dough: For best results, refrigerate the dough logs for the recommended time. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to handle when rolling out.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking. You can add a touch more cinnamon for a warmer flavor or increase the ginger for a spicier kick.
• Storage: Store these spice cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for several days, though they are best enjoyed within the first few days after baking.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 656.2
• Total Fat: 26.8g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 61mg
• Sodium: 338.8mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 98.7g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2.9g
  • Sugars: 41.3g
• Protein: 8.1g

These Spice Cookies (No White Sugar Included!) are a wonderful addition to any dessert table or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Their blend of warm spices and natural sweetness from honey and molasses makes them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious treats with your loved ones! 🍪