When you think of ginger, your mind might jump to tea, stir-fry, or something you drink to calm an upset stomach. But this spicy root isn’t just a kitchen remedy, it’s also a surprisingly amazing dessert ingredient.
Ginger brings a warm, slightly peppery sweetness to sweets, cutting through sugar and adding depth, zing, and even a bit of comfort. And the best part? It still carries those digestion-boosting benefits your gut loves.
Here are 7 creative and crave-worthy ways to use ginger in desserts:
1. Ginger-Infused Chocolate Truffles
Take your classic chocolate truffle recipe up a notch by infusing cream with fresh ginger slices before mixing it into melted dark chocolate. Chill, roll into balls, and dust with cocoa powder.
Why it works: Ginger and dark chocolate are a power duo, rich, indulgent, and unexpectedly harmonious.
2. Ginger-Honey Ice Cream
Add grated ginger and a swirl of raw honey into your vanilla or coconut milk ice cream base before churning. You can even fold in candied ginger pieces for texture.
Why it works: The sharp heat of ginger balances the sweetness of honey and cream, giving ice cream a refreshing twist.
3. Classic Ginger Cookies (with a Chewy Twist)
Make soft ginger molasses cookies using ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. For added flair, roll the dough in sugar before baking.
Why it works: These cookies are warm, chewy, and comforting, perfect with a cup of chai or milk.
4. Ginger and Citrus Poached Pears
Simmer peeled pears in a syrup of water, sugar, sliced ginger, and a bit of orange or lemon zest until they’re soft and juicy. Serve warm or chilled.
Why it works: This elegant dessert is light but flavorful, and it feels fancy while being easy to make.
5. Ginger-Maple Oat Crumble
Toss chopped apples or peaches with fresh ginger, lemon juice, and maple syrup. Top with a crunchy oat-almond crumble and bake until golden.
Why it works: The zing of ginger cuts through the sweetness, making this cosy dessert feel fresh and exciting.
6. Candied Ginger Bark
Melt dark or milk chocolate, spread it on parchment paper, and sprinkle with chopped candied ginger and crushed almonds or pistachios. Let it set and break into shards.
Why it works: The spicy-sweet candied ginger adds a pop of flavor in every bite, perfect for snacking or gifting.
7. Ginger-Lemon Cheesecake Bites
Make mini no-bake cheesecakes with a ginger snap crust. Add a little grated ginger and lemon zest into your cream cheese filling for brightness and zing.
Why it works: It’s tangy, creamy, and has just enough spice to make it memorable, not to mention easier to digest after a big meal.
Ginger isn’t just a spice, it’s an experience. It warms, heals, and elevates the flavour of your desserts without overpowering them. So the next time you’re baking or whipping up a sweet treat, consider adding a dash (or a chunk) of ginger.