As the aroma of spices drifts through my kitchen, I’m transported back to holiday gatherings that wrap you in warmth and joy. This sense of nostalgia is captured perfectly in my Chewy Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches with Vanilla Bean Buttercream, a festive delight that brings cheer with every bite. These cookies boast a soft, chewy texture, ideal for those craving a sweet escape from the hustle of fast-food life. Plus, the luscious buttercream filling adds a rich creaminess that transforms each sandwich into a little piece of heaven. Whether you’re planning a holiday party or simply looking to treat yourself, these delightful cookies are sure to impress. Curious about how to whip up this seasonal masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves create a delightful holiday aroma that fills your home with cheer.
Soft and Chewy: Each cookie has a perfect chewy texture that melts in your mouth, providing a comforting contrast to the creamy vanilla bean buttercream filling.
Versatile Treats: These gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches are perfect for festive gatherings, gifting, or just indulging yourself during chilly nights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their beautiful appearance and rich flavors make them a hit at any holiday party, just like these Chocolate Chip Cookie sandwich variations or Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have these tasty treats ready in no time, making them a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Packed Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; brown sugar can be substituted with white sugar, but the flavor and texture will differ.
- Canola Oil – Adds moisture and richness; can be replaced with melted coconut oil or vegetable oil.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; for a vegan option, use a flaxseed or chia egg.
- Molasses – Contributes deep flavor and color; substitute with honey or maple syrup for a lighter taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to cookies; whole wheat flour can be used for a denser texture, but will alter flavor.
- Ground Ginger – Adds the distinct ginger flavor; fresh ginger can be used, though the flavor will be stronger.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it is fresh for best results.
- Ground Cinnamon – Offers warm spice notes; can substitute with allspice for a different flavor profile.
- Ground Cloves – Adds depth to the gingerbread flavor; omit or substitute with nutmeg if unavailable.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; use sea salt for a finer texture.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the buttercream filling; can be made with granulated sugar if needed, though the texture will change.
For the Buttercream Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Provides creaminess and structure to the filling; use margarine or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
- Confectioners’ Sugar (for filling) – Sweetens and thickens the filling; same as above for substitutions.
- 2% Milk – Adds creaminess; use any milk or milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – Infuses the filling with rich vanilla flavor; use pure vanilla extract as an alternative.
- Salt (for filling) – Enhances flavor; can be omitted or adjusted based on preference.
Discover the magic of Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches through these straightforward ingredients that blend sweet and spice perfectly!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine packed brown sugar and canola oil, beating them together until well blended and smooth, about 2 minutes. Then, add the large egg and molasses to the mixture, continuing to mix until everything is fully incorporated, yielding a glossy, wet dough that has the inviting aroma of gingerbread.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The dough should start to take shape and become a bit sticky, infused with the warm spices characteristic of your gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches.
Step 3: Chill Dough
Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours. This crucial step ensures that the dough firms up, helping your cookies achieve that delightful crinkly texture when they bake. During this time, the spices will also meld, enhancing the flavor of your gingerbread cookies.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This way, when you’re ready to bake your gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches, the sheets are ready to go, preventing the cookies from sticking and ensuring even baking.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Gently roll each ball in confectioners’ sugar until fully coated, then place them spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. To enhance crinkling, lightly flatten each ball with your hand, ensuring they maintain some height.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the tops are set and begin to crack, creating that signature crinkle. The cookies will puff up slightly and develop a golden-brown edge. When done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on wire racks before assembling the sandwiches.
Step 7: Prepare Buttercream Filling
While the cookies cool, make the vanilla bean buttercream filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Gradually incorporate the confectioners’ sugar, followed by the milk, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt, mixing until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency that’s perfect for your gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches.
Step 8: Assemble Sandwiches
Once the cookies are fully cooled, take one cookie and spread about a tablespoon of the buttercream filling on the flat side. Top with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich. Press gently to secure. Continue this process with the remaining cookies, ensuring each gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwich is beautifully filled and ready to share!
Expert Tips for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches
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Chill the Dough: Ensure you chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture and signature crinkle.
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Roll Uniformly: Roll your cookie dough into uniform 1-inch balls. This ensures even baking and makes for beautifully symmetrical gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be set but still soft; overbaking can lead to dry cookies, detracting from their chewy goodness.
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Fluff the Butter: When preparing your buttercream filling, beat the butter until fluffy for a lighter, creamier texture. This makes your filling melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
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Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe features vanilla bean buttercream, don’t hesitate to try other fillings like cream cheese frosting or flavored jams for a twist on your gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches.
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on these beloved cookies with delightful variations that will dance in your mouth!
- Spice Swap: Replace ground ginger with fresh ginger for a bolder flavor profile that brings a fresh zing to your cookies.
- Alternative Fillings: Use cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream. The tanginess of cream cheese pairs beautifully with the spices for a delightful contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for a satisfying crunch that adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the assembled sandwiches. This decadent touch elevates the experience and adds a sweet finish.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these festive treats regardless of dietary restrictions.
- Minty Fresh: Add peppermint extract to the buttercream for a cooling twist, perfect for the holiday season!
- Fruit Punch: Incorporate finely chopped dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for a sweet and chewy burst of fruitiness that complements the spices.
- Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cookie dough for an unexpected kick that will surprise your taste buds!
Explore these creative combinations to make your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches as unique as your festive gatherings! If you want more holiday inspiration, check out my delightful Hot Chocolate Cookies or try these irresistible Chocolate Chip Cookie variations!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches
These delightful gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches are a perfect centerpiece for a cozy holiday gathering.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness offers a smooth contrast to the chewy cookies, enhancing a comforting holiday meal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding a crunchy texture to your spread.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa, topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, complements the festive spices in the cookies perfectly.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light, fresh note to cut through the richness of the cookie sandwiches, making for a balanced dessert experience.
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Cheeseboard: Pair the cookies with cream cheese or a soft, sweet cheese. The creamy texture will enhance the indulgent flavors of the gingerbread.
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Glazed Ham: The sweet glaze on a savory ham dish mirrors the sweet and spicy profile of the cookies, creating a harmonious holiday spread.
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Pumpkin Pie: For a classic dessert pairing, the spiced and creamy notes of pumpkin pie beautifully accentuate the warm flavors of the gingerbread.
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Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai provides a delightful warmth and complex flavors, making it a comforting beverage to enjoy alongside the cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches
Room Temperature: Store assembled cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: Keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This helps preserve the creamy texture of the buttercream filling.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw before filling.
Reheating: Gently warm the filled sandwiches in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, keeping them soft and inviting!
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks looking to make festive treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the frozen dough overnight in the refrigerator, roll it into balls, coat them in confectioners’ sugar, and bake as directed. Additionally, the buttercream filling can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, when you assemble the sandwiches, they’ll taste just as delicious as if freshly made!
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ginger and molasses for my cookies?
Absolutely! Use fresh, fragrant ground ginger for the best flavor. When it comes to molasses, look for unsulfured molasses as it has a milder taste and is less bitter. If your molasses is too thick, a little warm water can help to make it easier to mix.
How should I store my gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches?
Store these delightful gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just ensure they’re stored in a way that maintains the integrity of the filling.
Can I freeze these gingerbread crinkle cookie sandwiches?
Very! Freeze the unfilled cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Just thaw before filling to enjoy the chewy goodness!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your cookie dough is too sticky to roll into balls after chilling, try dusting your hands with a little confectioners’ sugar or flour while shaping. Alternatively, chilling the dough for a bit longer can also help firm it up for easier handling.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe includes common allergens like eggs and dairy. For an egg-free version, substitute with a flaxseed or chia egg. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based butter in the filling and your choice of milk alternatives such as almond or oat milk. Always check your ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs.
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Sandwiches That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine packed brown sugar and canola oil, beating them together until well blended and smooth, about 2 minutes. Then, add the large egg and molasses to the mixture, continuing to mix until everything is fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Once the dough is chilled, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Gently roll each ball in confectioners' sugar until fully coated, then place them spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the tops are set and begin to crack.
- While the cookies cool, make the vanilla bean buttercream filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Once the cookies are fully cooled, take one cookie and spread about a tablespoon of the buttercream filling on the flat side. Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.
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