Gingersnap Cookies: Nutritional Information and Ingredients Breakdown
Gingersnap cookies, known for their crisp texture and warming spices, offer a delightful treat that balances sweetness with a hint of spice. Here’s an in-depth look at their nutritional profile, ingredients, and other health-related information. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a classic dessert without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
-
Energy: 416 kcal
-
Protein: 5.6 g
-
Total Fat: 9.8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.45 g
-
Carbohydrates: 76.9 g
- Fiber: 2.2 g
- Sugar: 19.92 g
-
Minerals:
- Calcium: 77.0 mg
- Iron: 6.4 mg
- Magnesium: 49.0 mg
- Phosphorus: 83.0 mg
- Potassium: 346.0 mg
- Sodium: 501.0 mg
- Zinc: 0.55 mg
- Copper: 0.305 mcg
- Manganese: 1.555 mg
- Selenium: 5.1 mcg
-
Vitamins:
- Vitamin C: 0.0 mg
- Thiamin (B1): 0.2 mg
- Riboflavin (B2): 0.293 mg
- Niacin (B3): 3.235 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.098 mg
- Folate: 6.0 mcg
- Vitamin B12: 0.0 mcg
- Vitamin A: 0.0 mcg
- Vitamin E: 0.97 mg
- Vitamin D2: 0.0 mcg
Ingredients Breakdown
The key ingredients in gingersnap cookies are simple yet powerful, combining for a distinctive flavor that people love year after year. Common ingredients typically include:
- Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies, creating a firm and slightly crumbly texture.
- Sugar: Used to sweeten the cookies, contributing to the chewy and caramelized finish.
- Molasses: Adds depth of flavor with its rich, dark sweetness, and helps keep the cookies soft.
- Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread, giving them their signature texture.
- Ginger: The key spice, providing the unmistakable spicy kick and aromatic warmth.
- Cinnamon and Cloves: Complement the ginger with their rich, warm flavors, enhancing the complexity of the cookies.
- Butter or Margarine: Adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor, balancing out the spiciness.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together, ensuring a tender texture.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the spices.
Allergen Information
Gingersnap cookies typically contain the following allergens:
- Wheat (Gluten): Present due to the flour used.
- Dairy: Depending on the recipe, butter or margarine may be used, containing milk.
- Eggs: A key binder in many recipes.
Please note that variations in recipes may lead to differences in allergens, so be sure to check specific ingredients when making or purchasing gingersnap cookies if you have food sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences
Gingersnap cookies can be adapted to various dietary needs:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians, as it uses plant-based ingredients (though dairy may be present depending on the butter used).
- Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or other egg replacers.
- Gluten-Free: By using a gluten-free flour blend, gingersnap cookies can be made suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Low-Sugar: To reduce sugar content, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Nutritional Advice
While gingersnap cookies offer a combination of comforting flavors and texture, they are best enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar and fat content. The cookies do provide some beneficial nutrients, such as iron, manganese, and phosphorus, which support overall health. The presence of fiber, although modest, helps with digestion, while the spices like ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
These cookies can be a great addition to a balanced diet, providing an occasional treat that satisfies a sweet craving without completely overindulging.
Conclusion
Gingersnap cookies bring a traditional, aromatic flavor to the table, with a well-rounded nutrient profile. Whether you’re making them from scratch or purchasing them from your local bakery, understanding the ingredients and nutritional value helps you enjoy them while keeping your dietary needs in mind. Rich in spices and antioxidants, these cookies not only delight the taste buds but also provide small health benefits. So, indulge in a crunchy, spicy bite while keeping in mind the balance between enjoyment and nutrition.