Ginger Cream Pies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back memories of cozy afternoons, then these Ginger Cream Pies are just the ticket! Picture this: two soft ginger molasses cookies hugging a fluffy, creamy filling of vegan marshmallow frosting. It’s a sweet dream come true! This recipe is not only perfect for the holidays but also makes for a wonderful addition to family gatherings or even just a special snack after a long day. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these little pies hold such a special place in my heart.

These Ginger Cream Pies are simple to whip up and are sure to impress. They’re chewy, flavorful, and truly irresistible. You won’t believe how quickly they disappear!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have these delicious treats ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love the combination of spices and sweetness—perfect for both kids and adults!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them for busy days or surprise guests.
• Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices paired with creamy frosting create an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will help us create these delicious Ginger Cream Pies. Most of these should be staples in your pantry, making it easy to whip up this delightful dessert whenever the craving strikes!

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 marshmallow 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of ground ginger if you’re looking for more zing in your cookies.
• Nutty Twist: Mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Different Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or agave nectar instead of molasses for different flavor profiles.

How to Make Ginger Cream Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together well; this will ensure that all those aromatic spices are evenly distributed throughout your dough.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely chewy texture. Add in the egg and vanilla extract until combined before mixing in the molasses.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork it! A gentle hand here helps keep those cookies soft.

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they look set but still soft in the center. Let them cool on wire racks; this will allow them to firm up while keeping their chewiness intact.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While your cookies cool down, let’s whip up that dreamy frosting! In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter with vegan marshmallow cream until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until you reach your desired consistency—light and fluffy is key here!

Step 6: Assemble Your Ginger Cream Pies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous dollop of frosting on one cookie before topping it with another cookie to create a sandwich. Repeat until all cookies are filled! Enjoy these delectable treats fresh or store them in an airtight container—they get even better after resting for a day!

I hope you enjoy making these Ginger Cream Pies as much as I do! They truly are a warming hug in cookie form.

Pro Tips for Making Ginger Cream Pies

Creating the perfect Ginger Cream Pies is all about the details! Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out absolutely delightful:

• Chill Your Dough: Letting your cookie dough chill for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices pack more flavor. If possible, grind your ginger and other spices just before using to enhance the warm, aromatic qualities of your cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft and chewy texture we love.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The sweetness can vary based on personal preference. Feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting to match your taste.
• Experiment with Fillings: While vegan marshmallow cream is delicious, consider adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting for an added layer of flavor!

How to Serve Ginger Cream Pies

When it comes to serving these scrumptious Ginger Cream Pies, presentation can elevate their appeal. Here are some creative ideas:

Garnishes

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and makes your pies visually appealing.
• Sprinkle with Ground Cinnamon: Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon not only enhances the flavor but also gives your cookies a lovely aroma.

Side Dishes

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of ginger, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings a burst of color and fresh flavors that complement the sweetness of the pies.
• Chai Tea: Warm chai tea offers a spiced beverage option that harmonizes beautifully with the ginger notes in your cookies.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free whipped cream adds richness and creaminess that balances out the chewy texture of the cookies.

Enjoy making and serving these delightful Ginger Cream Pies—they’re sure to become a favorite at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Ginger Cream Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert whenever the craving strikes. You can easily make them ahead of time and store them properly for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Ginger Cream Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a firmer cookie texture, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• To maintain freshness, avoid stacking the cookies directly on top of each other; use parchment paper in between layers.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place individual sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• If you want to enjoy your Ginger Cream Pies warm, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a crisper texture, reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Ginger Cream Pies that might help you out!

Can I use different spices in my Ginger Cream Pies?

Absolutely! While ginger is the star here, feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor twist.

How do I make my Ginger Cream Pies fluffier?

To achieve fluffier cookies, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. Also, be careful not to overmix your dough when adding the dry ingredients.

Can I substitute molasses in my Ginger Cream Pies?

Yes! If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, although it will slightly alter the flavor.

What makes these Ginger Cream Pies special?

These pies are special because they combine chewy ginger molasses cookies with creamy vegan marshmallow frosting, making them a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Ginger Cream Pies! They are not only a fantastic addition to your dessert table but also offer a warm taste of home during the holidays. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!