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Spicy Gingerbread Sticks

spicy gingerbread sticks - featured image

These festive gingerbread sticks are crisp on the edges, tender in the center, and packed with warm holiday spices and a hint of heat. Perfect for gifting, dipping, or snacking at holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free blend)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/3 cup unsulphured molasses
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or dairy-free margarine)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature (or flaxseed egg for egg-free)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
  2. Beat in egg and molasses until fully incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cayenne, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing on low until a soft dough forms.
  5. Cover and refrigerate dough for at least 30 minutes (or freeze for 10 minutes if short on time).
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Slice into sticks about 1/2 inch wide and 4 inches long.
  8. Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating. Roll each stick lightly in the mixture.
  9. Arrange sticks on prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are set. For crunchier sticks, bake an extra 2 minutes.
  11. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill dough thoroughly to prevent spreading. Adjust spice level to taste. For gluten-free or vegan, use appropriate substitutions. Sticks can be made ahead and freeze well. For extra sparkle, coat sticks twice in sugar mixture.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread sticks, holiday dessert, spicy gingerbread, Christmas cookies, edible gifts, festive baking, easy gingerbread recipe