Ginger Wafers Recipe
Ginger Wafers are a delightful treat that has been enjoyed for generations. This crispy and spicy cookie is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon snack. The recipe for Ginger Wafers is simple and requires ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.
History of Ginger Wafers:
Ginger has been used in cooking and baking for centuries, and ginger-flavored wafers first gained popularity during the Middle Ages in Europe. Ginger was highly prized and sought after for its distinct flavor and medicinal properties. The combination of ginger and molasses was especially popular, as it provided a comforting and warming sensation.
Fun Facts about Ginger:
- Ginger is known for its various health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Ginger was considered a luxury item in Europe during the medieval period and was often used in baked goods reserved for special occasions.
- The term "wafer" refers to a thin and crisp biscuit, typically cooked on a hot iron. Wafers were commonly made in various flavors, with ginger being one of the most popular choices.
Now, let's explore how to make these delicious Ginger Wafers!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of molasses
- 1/2 cup of cold coffee (you can also use water if preferred)
- 2 teaspoons of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
- Sufficient flour to make a stiff dough (approximately 3-4 cups)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the molasses and mix until well combined. Then, add the cold coffee (or water) and mix again.
4. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in a small amount of warm water. Add this mixture to the dough and stir well.
5. Gradually add the ground ginger and flour to the mixture, mixing well after each addition. Continue adding flour until the dough becomes stiff enough to roll out thinly.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch in thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutter to cut out shapes, such as circles or rectangles.
7. Place the cut-out shapes onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the wafers start to turn golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the wafers to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, store the Ginger Wafers in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
Ginger Wafers are delicious on their own as a snack, but you can also serve them with a cup of tea or coffee. These wafers can be enjoyed during special occasions, such as Christmas or as a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.
Similar Recipes:
- If you enjoy the spicy warmth of Ginger Wafers, you might also enjoy trying Gingerbread Cookies or Ginger Snaps. Both of these recipes feature ginger as a prominent flavor and share some similarities with Ginger Wafers. Gingerbread tends to be thicker and more cake-like, perfect for decorating with icing, while Ginger Snaps have a distinctive crunch and snap to them.
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