Ginger Newt

Today, we’re diving into one of my absolute FAVORITE snacks from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando – the Ginger Newt! These aren’t your ordinary gingerbread cookies; they’re a bewitching blend of Christmas-y spices and chewy cookie that perfectly captures the holiday spirit. Our gingerbread cookie recipe will help you recreate this amazing Wizarding World snack.

Avoid this treat if you are at the parks! 1/5 stars . . . but you can make it better at home with our Butterbeer Fudge recipe!

What is a Ginger Newt?

Imagine a soft, chewy gingerbread cookie shaped like an adorable newt, each one with a thin, sugar glaze that crackles with every bite. The warmth of the spices, including ginger, cinnamon, and allspice, harmonizes perfectly with the sweetness of the cookie and glaze. It’s a truly enchanting treat that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your inner wizard. They are definitely a 5/5!

Where to Find Ginger Newts

If you’re lucky enough to be at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World, you can find these delightful creatures at two charming locations:

• Honeydukes: This iconic sweet shop in Hogsmeade is a treasure trove of confectionery delights, and this special gingerbread cookie recipe is no exception.
• Sugarplums: Located in the heart of Diagon Alley, Sugarplums offers a variety of sugary treats, including these Ginger Newts.

These spiced and iced cookies are a MUST get when in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Want to make them even better? Get yourself a hot butterbeer to dip it in! Trust me, you’ll love it!

The Magic of the Ginger Newt Recipe

Recreating this soft gingerbread cookie recipe at home is a truly magical experience. The dough is made with a blend of warming spices and rich molasses, resulting in a soft and chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. Once baked, the cookies are adorned with a simple yet delicious sugar glaze that adds an extra touch of sweetness and a satisfying bite.

Tips for the Perfect Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

• Chill the dough: Before baking, chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and ensures that your newts keep their shape.
• Use a newt cookie cutter: If you want to replicate the iconic shape, a newt cookie cutter is essential. You can find several cute options on Etsy.
• Let them cool completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely before applying the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and making your cookies soggy.

Beyond Ginger Newts & Gingerbread Cookie Recipes

The Ginger Newt is just one of many magical treats you can discover in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Be sure to try other fan favorites like Cauldron Cakes, Pumpkin Pasties, Chocolate Frogs, and of course, a refreshing cup of Butterbeer.

Looking for a different kind of magic? Check out our Disney recipes here!

Ingredients:

Ginger Newt dough – Gingerbread Cookie Dough Ingredients:

• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 TBS Ground Cinnamon
• 1 TBS ground Ginger
• 1/2 TBS Allspice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 12 TBS butter, divided
• 3/4 cup dark molasses
• 3 TBS milk

Cookie Glaze Ingredients:

• 1 Cup confectioners sugar (powdered sugar)
• 1 TBS Light Corn Syrup
• 1/2 TBS Vanilla
• 4 TBS Whole Milk

Directions:

1. PrepWork: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Dry Ingredients: In your stand mixer, using the whisk attachment, whisk together flour, dark brown sugar, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and allspice.
3. Like a Pie Crust: Next, add the butter, a tablespoon at a time to the dry ingredients, whisking between each addition, until it is crumbly and sandy. (This is just like what you’d do if you were making a pie crust).
4. Switch & Add: Switch your stand mixer to the paddle attachment and slowly add in the molasses. Once fully combined, add in the milk a tablespoon at a time until the dough begins to form chunks (this will NOT look like chocolate chip cookie dough. This is more dry and more similar to sugar cookie dough).
5. Freeze & Roll: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up. Then roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness using a rolling pin. Use your newt cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on parchment lined baking trays.
6. Bake: Place on prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes.
7. Cool: Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Glaze: Mix all glaze ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Once the cookies are COMPLETELY COOL, you can either dip them in the glaze, or apply the glaze using a silicone pastry brush.
9. Enjoy: Let the glaze set, then serve with a mug of hot butterbeer.