Clove Snaps: A Delightful Crunchy Treat
If you’re searching for a cookie that combines a warm, spicy crunch with a classic sweetness, these Clove Snaps are sure to hit the mark. Perfect for pairing with a cozy cup of tea, these cookies offer a delightful twist on the traditional gingersnap, thanks to the aromatic blend of ground cloves, cinnamon, and a touch of black pepper. Below is a detailed guide to crafting these delectable treats, ideal for Christmas or any time you’re in the mood for a flavorful snack. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Preparation and Cooking Times
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12 minutes |
| Total Time | 2 hours 42 minutes |
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of the dough, giving it structure and texture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves – Adds a distinctive, warming spice that’s central to the cookie’s flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances the warmth and complexity of the spice profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper – Provides a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a tender, rich texture in the cookies.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to the cookies’ crisp edges.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and helps the dough come together.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest – Imparts a fresh, citrusy note that brightens the flavor profile.
Instructions
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: Begin by sifting together the flour, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
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Cream the Butter: In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the unsalted butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes. The creaming process is crucial as it incorporates air into the butter, leading to a lighter cookie texture.
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Incorporate the Sugar: Add the granulated sugar to the creamed butter and continue mixing until the sugar is well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed.
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Add the Egg and Orange Zest: Crack in the large egg and add the orange zest. Mix on medium speed until the egg and zest are fully incorporated into the butter-sugar mixture. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
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Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until the flour is absorbed and the dough begins to come together. This should take about 30 seconds. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
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Form and Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough gently until it forms a smooth mass. Flatten the dough into a disk approximately 1/2 inch thick. Wrap the disk tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 2 hours.
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Preheat the Oven: About 15 minutes before you plan to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows the oven to reach the proper temperature for baking.
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Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to an even thickness of 1/8 inch. If the dough sticks, lightly sprinkle flour underneath to prevent sticking. Ensure the dough is rolled out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
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Cut and Shape the Cookies: Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the dough. Place the cookie shapes onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart to allow for expansion.
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Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges and on the bottoms. For even baking, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
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Cool and Store: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets set on wire racks. Once cooled, transfer the cookies to an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
These Clove Snaps are a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie tray or an afternoon tea. Their spicy crunch and sweet undertones make them a standout treat that’s sure to please. Enjoy the baking process and savor the delicious results with friends and family!
Keywords: Clove Snaps, Spicy Cookies, Gingersnap Alternatives, Holiday Treats, Tea Time Cookies
