Ginger Snaps vs. Gingerbread: Differences & Which Is Better?
Some of the most common types of cookies around holidays are gingerbread cookies. However, even the gingerbread cookies have their own variations, such as the ginger snaps. Sometimes, it is very difficult to determine their differences and what makes them distinct. So, what is the difference between ginger snaps and gingerbread cookies?
Gingerbread and ginger snaps taste very similar. However, ginger snaps are baked longer, include crispiness, and are always round. On the other hand, gingerbread cookies are chewy and come in different shapes, such as the gingerbread man and star. For gingerbread cookies, you need molds, while ginger snaps are just rolled between your hands.
If you cannot decide whether you want to bake ginger snaps or gingerbread cookies, you should compare them and see the differences between them clearly. Only then can you choose one that suits your needs better. In this article, I have discussed the differences between ginger snaps and gingerbread cookies, so you could decide on your own which type is better for you.
Ginger Snaps vs. Gingerbread: Differences
Gingerbread cookies are the most common type of cookies, especially around the holidays. They have been present worldwide for centuries, and their popularity has influenced the appearance of gingerbread variations. That is why we have ginger snaps that vary in some features and properties.
Below, you will be able to read the list of differences that exist between ginger snaps and gingerbread cookies and allow yourself to understand the distinction in a clear way.
Texture
The texture of ginger snaps and gingerbread cookies might be the most visible difference between these two baked treats. So, ginger snaps are characterized by a crunchy texture because their recipe calls for longer baking time. They are firmer than gingerbread cookies, and their crispness can be felt at every bite.
On the other hand, gingerbread cookies are chewier and not baked as long as ginger snaps. In fact, their texture is quite soft, and it is quite similar to one of the glazed cookies. The goal when baking gingerbread cookies is to make them soft enough, so you can feel their crumbles melt in your mouth.
Ingredients
As the names of these cookies suggest, ginger is the main ingredient in both ginger snaps and gingerbread cookies. However, since their textures differ, they might include some different ingredients.
For instance, gingerbread cookies are primarily made of flour, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon. Spices such as ginger, cloves, cardamom, cloves, and anise are added later to the mixture.
On the other hand, ginger snaps have similar ingredients, but a different way of preparation. Therefore, the mixture for the ginger snaps is made of the same ingredients. However, instead of sugar, they contain molasses. Molasses is considered a cheaper alternative for sugar, so ginger snaps are sweetened by this ingredient.
Preparation
Once all of the ingredients for gingerbread are mixed and rolled out, you take the mold and cut the dough into different shapes. The last step is to bake them according to their recipes.
Ginger snaps are not prepared using molds like gingerbread cookies are. To shape ginger snaps, take a piece of dough and roll it into the ball between your hands. After that, roll the balls in cinnamon sugar. Also, ginger snaps are baked for a longer period, and that is how they achieve their crispness and crunchiness.
Origin
Gingerbread cookies have been present worldwide for centuries, although their original taste was not as it is today. The first gingerbread cookies were created in Greece, and that recipe was altered by many cultures later. Many countries have made their own changes to the recipes, so the flavors have varied greatly.
However, the gingerbread cookies that we all know today come from England. These cookies were primarily introduced to the English nation in the 11th century, and they have modeled them with the flavors we know today. Actually, Queen Elizabeth introduced the common flavors of gingerbread cookies and made their holiday treats.
Ginger snaps, on the other hand, were modified by the Germans. They have introduced a new way of preparation, and the crispy texture present in them. Ginger snap means “to seize quickly”, hence the name of these easily and quickly-prepared holiday treats.
Ginger Snaps Vs. Gingerbread: Which Is Better?
If you have read the comparison carefully, you have noticed no significant differences between ginger snaps and gingerbread cookies. The main difference is their texture, which does not affect the taste very much. Therefore, if your main concern is the taste, whichever you choose will satisfy your needs.
However, if you are looking for something crunchier and crispier, then you should opt for ginger snaps. Gingerbread cookies are more suitable for those looking for something chewy, and something that melts and crumbles in the mouth. Also, these cookies usually come in fun holiday shapes, while ginger snaps are regular circle-shaped baked treats.
Therefore, it is very difficult to determine which one is better. However, it is important to point out that gingerbread cookies are the more traditional option. So, if you want to stick to tradition and taste the original flavors, then you should not rack your brain anymore.
In conclusion, ginger snaps and gingerbread cookies do not contain a lot of differences. However, they are still distinct baked goods, so it is good to know their distinguished features and properties.
