Gingersnap

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This page is about the biscuit/cookie. For the film, see Ginger Snaps (film).

Drop-style gingersnaps displaying the typical cracked surface of the American style

Gingernuts or ginger biscuits are a popular type of snack food, and are often referred to as gingersnaps in the United States and Canada. They are called gingersnaps because people tend to snap at them. They are biscuits/cookies flavoured with powdered ginger, anise, and other spices. They are sold and made worldwide and have a long history, probably dating back to medieval fairs. They generally measure 5cm (two inches) in diameter.

Scandinavian-style ginger thins

In the United States, gingersnaps are generally round drop cookies, usually between 1/8- and 1/4-inch thick, with prominent cracks in the top surface. Scandinavian gingersnaps, also called ginger thins or pepparkakor, are rolled quite thin (often under 1/8-inch thick), and cut into shapes; they have smooth tops, and are usually somewhat crisper (and in some cases, more strongly flavoured) than the American version.