Girard College Ginger Delights: Hum Mud Ginger Cookies Recipe

Hum Muds (Ginger Cookies from Girard College)

🕒 Cook Time: 20 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 25 cookies

Description:

This recipe unveils the nostalgic flavors of Hum Muds, ginger cookies cherished by students at Girard College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, many years ago. Often referred to as “Mud Pies from the Home,” these cookies carry a legacy deeply rooted in tradition and cherished memories. Recreating this recipe brings back a piece of history and a taste of the past.

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 8 tablespoons brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons molasses
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup water (divided)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the brown sugar, lard, salt, and spices until light and fluffy.

2. Incorporate Molasses:

   • Add the molasses to the creamed mixture and beat for about 3 minutes until well combined.

3. Add Water:

   • Pour in 3/4 cup of cool water and continue beating for 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and evenly incorporated.

4. Fold in Flour:

   • Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until the dough forms a uniform consistency.

5. Activate Baking Soda:

   • Dissolve the baking soda in 1/4 cup of cool water. Add this mixture to the dough, stirring until smooth and thoroughly combined.

6. Preheat and Prepare:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and lightly flour a baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking.

7. Shape the Cookies:

   • Wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking, then form the dough into small patties. Place these patties onto the prepared baking sheet and gently pat them down to flatten slightly.

8. Score the Cookies:

   • Dip a knife into cold water, then use it to score the tops of the cookies with a crisscross pattern, commonly associated with ginger cookies.

9. Bake to Perfection:

   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for approximately 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and set.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Once baked, allow the Hum Muds to cool slightly before serving. These delightful ginger cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family, or for indulging in a nostalgic treat reminiscent of days gone by at Girard College.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 378.8
• Fat: 5.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 4.7mg
• Sodium: 187.5mg
• Carbohydrates: 77.4g
  • Fiber: 1.4g
  • Sugar: 31.4g
• Protein: 5.2g

Keywords:

Cookie & Brownie, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 60 Mins, College Food

Notes:

Hum Muds, with their rich blend of spices and molasses sweetness, offer a taste of history and tradition. Recreating these beloved cookies brings warmth to the kitchen and a connection to the past, making them a delightful addition to any baking repertoire. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the nostalgia with every delicious bite!