Ginger Cream Pies

Ginger Cream Pies are a delightful treat that combines soft, spiced ginger molasses cookies with fluffy vegan marshmallow frosting. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in. Their unique flavors and chewy texture make them irresistible, and they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a warm and inviting taste.
Chewy Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy, making them a satisfying dessert option.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for holidays or everyday snacking, they can be enjoyed anytime.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time.
Vegan-Friendly Frosting: The creamy vegan marshmallow frosting adds a delightful twist without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Ginger Cream Pies, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: This tool helps to achieve the perfect creamy texture for your frosting quickly and effortlessly.
Parchment paper: Using this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze when baking your cookies.

Ingredients

These molasses cream pie cookies are chewy, flavorful, and completely irresistible. They feature 2 super soft ginger molasses cookies with creamy, fluffy vegan marshmallows frosting. These are even more delicious than Lil Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies – perfect for the holidays too.

For the Cookies

2 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/3 cup molasses (cooking or fancy molasses work best)

For the Frosting

1/3 cup white sugar (or coarse sugar)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup vegan marshmallows cream (about 1/2 of a 7.5 ounce jar)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 – 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk or cream

How to Make Ginger Cream Pies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
2. Whisk together until well mixed; set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
2. Stir in the molasses until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Scoop Out Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop:
– Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.
Remove from the oven and let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

In a clean mixing bowl:
1. Beat together softened butter and vegan marshmallow cream until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time until desired sweetness is reached.
3. Add milk or cream as needed for consistency.

Step 8: Assemble Ginger Cream Pies

Once cookies are cool:
– Spread frosting on the flat side of one cookie and top with another to create sandwiches.

Enjoy your Ginger Cream Pies! They’re sure to bring joy to every occasion you serve them at!

How to Serve Ginger Cream Pies

Ginger Cream Pies are not just a treat; they’re an experience. These delightful sandwich cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.

With a Hot Beverage

Pair with coffee or tea for a warm, cozy treat. The spices in the cookies complement the flavors of your favorite drink beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

Arrange Ginger Cream Pies on a dessert platter alongside other sweets. This makes for an appealing display at gatherings and holidays.

With Fresh Fruit

Serve with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess of the pies. The fruit adds a crisp texture that balances the softness of the cookies.

On a Picnic

Pack them for outdoor events. Their sturdy construction makes them perfect for enjoying in the sun without worrying about mess.

As Party Favors

Wrap them individually in clear bags tied with ribbon. They make charming gifts for guests at parties or celebrations.

How to Perfect Ginger Cream Pies

Achieving the ideal Ginger Cream Pies is all about attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in achieving a smooth dough and ensures even mixing, leading to better texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine ingredients until just blended for soft, chewy results.
Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps it maintain shape and prevents spreading.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly firm but still soft when you take them out of the oven.
Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the cookies to cool completely before frosting ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt and keeps its fluffy texture.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add extra spices or citrus zest for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Ginger Cream Pies

While Ginger Cream Pies are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and enhances the warm spices in the cookies.
Coconut Whipped Cream
Light and fluffy, coconut whipped cream brings a tropical flair that pairs well with ginger’s warmth.
Spiced Applesauce
The natural sweetness and spice of applesauce make it an excellent choice alongside these flavorful pies.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce
A drizzle of melted chocolate offers a decadent touch that contrasts nicely with the ginger flavor.
Caramel Sauce
Drizzling caramel over your Ginger Cream Pies adds richness and an extra layer of sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad provides freshness and balance, making it an ideal side dish for this sweet treat.
Chai Tea Latte
This spiced beverage complements the flavors in Ginger Cream Pies perfectly, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Roasted Nuts
A mix of roasted nuts offers crunch and savory notes that contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Ginger Cream Pies can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

Using stale spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor. Always check the date on your ground ginger, cinnamon, and other spices to avoid a bland pie.
Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
Not chilling the dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading. If your dough isn’t chilled, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate heat levels.
Underbaking: While it’s tempting to pull them out early, slightly underbaked cookies will firm up as they cool. Aim for a soft center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Ginger Cream Pies

Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ginger Cream Pies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
Microwave: Heat one pie at a time on low power for 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Place on a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a couple of minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ginger Cream Pies that might help you in your baking journey.

Can I use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes! Vegan butter works well as a substitute and will still yield delicious Ginger Cream Pies.

How do I know when my Ginger Cream Pies are done baking?

Look for edges that are set and a slightly soft center. They’ll firm up while cooling.

Can I customize the frosting for my Ginger Cream Pies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add flavors like vanilla or almond extract to the frosting for a unique twist.

What should I serve with Ginger Cream Pies?

These pies go wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit!

Final Thoughts

Ginger Cream Pies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with different frostings or even add nuts or chocolate chips. Try this recipe today and enjoy these chewy delights with friends and family!