Chai-Infused Gingerbread Cookies: A Delectable Twist on a Holiday Classic
Indulge in the warm flavors of the holiday season with these aromatic chai-infused gingerbread cookies. This recipe combines the traditional spices of gingerbread with the comforting notes of chai for a treat that is sure to delight your taste buds. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in, these cookies will fill your home with the scents of the season and leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 chai tea bag
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the butter and chai tea bag over low heat until the butter is melted. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then remove the tea bag, squeezing out any excess liquid.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.
4. In a separate large bowl, cream together the chai-infused butter, brown sugar, and molasses until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
6. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
8. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These chai-infused gingerbread cookies are a delightful twist on a holiday favorite. The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom blend perfectly with the rich flavors of chai for a cookie that is both familiar and unique. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea, as a dessert at your holiday table, or as a sweet treat for Santa, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
So, this holiday season, elevate your cookie game with these irresistible chai-infused gingerbread cookies. They are the perfect combination of cozy spices and comforting flavors, making them a must-have for your festive celebrations. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delectable treats that capture the essence of the season.
