Ginger Molasses Cookies

Submitted by Stacey Hutchings

I found this recipe on the Food Network website. They are so yummy! It was contributed by Chef Charles Dale of the Range Restaurant in Aspen Colorado. It also comes with a recipe for Roasted Banana Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce to make a really gourmet cookie sandwich. I've never tried it though--roasting bananas scares me. :)

Ginger Molasses Cookies
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon powdered ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
7 ounces unsalted butter (1 3/4 cubes)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup dark molasses
2 Tablespoons coffee (I either skip it, or use water)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Whisk together first six ingredients. In a separate bowl, using a mixer, cream butter and sugar. Add dry ingredients, then molasses and water. Be careful not to over mix. Form in 1-inch balls and place on greased cookie sheet (or parchment paper). Flatten slightly. Bake for 8-10 minutes.