Stage Planks

A Sweet Taste of History: Stage Planks

As a busy working mom, finding time for anything beyond the daily grind can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, even amidst the chaos of school pick-ups, work deadlines, and dinner preparations, a little bit of history and a whole lot of sweetness can transform a mundane evening into something truly special. That’s exactly what happened when I discovered the recipe for Stage Planks – spicy molasses cookies that were a staple on the streets of nineteenth-century New Orleans.

The recipe, unearthed from the pages of The Delta Queen Cookbook, transported me back in time. I imagined bustling New Orleans streets, the aroma of these warm, spicy cookies wafting through the air, tempting passersby with their irresistible scent. The image sparked a yearning to connect with a simpler era, a time when treats like these were crafted with love and simple ingredients, shared among friends and family without the distractions of modern life. And honestly, making these cookies became a little escape from the everyday; a moment of mindful creation in the middle of a whirlwind.

The process itself was surprisingly straightforward. The combination of molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves created a warm, comforting aroma that filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozier space, a more relaxed time. While the dough was mixing, I could feel the stress of the day slowly melting away – replaced by a sense of anticipation. The rhythmic mixing, the satisfying smell, the simple act of baking provided a comforting routine in my otherwise hectic day.

Rolling out the dough, cutting it into neat rectangles, and placing each piece onto the baking sheet felt almost meditative. It was a chance to slow down, to focus on the task at hand and appreciate the little things. The anticipation as they baked, the rich dark color developing in the oven, the moment of truth when the first cookie was carefully removed and cooled… these little steps weren't just about making cookies; they were about creating a moment of peace amidst the chaos of modern life. The result? Sixteen perfectly spiced, wonderfully textured Stage Planks that brought a taste of New Orleans history into my own home.

The cookies themselves were a delightful surprise. The spicy warmth of the molasses and spices balanced perfectly with the soft, slightly chewy texture. They weren't overly sweet, offering a more complex flavour profile than many modern cookies. They were a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea after dinner, a quiet reward for a long day. More than just a delicious treat, these Stage Planks became a symbol of slowing down and savouring the moments, of finding joy in the simple act of baking, and of creating a little piece of history in my own kitchen.

Sharing these cookies with my family became an unexpected highlight. They loved the unique flavor and the story behind them, and for a moment, we were all transported to another time and place. In that moment, surrounded by the warm glow of the kitchen lights and the aroma of freshly baked cookies, it was easy to forget the stress and demands of daily life, replaced by the sweetness of connection and shared enjoyment.

Beyond just the delicious taste, making these Stage Planks taught me a valuable lesson about appreciating the simple things in life. The act of baking, the connection to history, the shared moments with family – these are the true ingredients of a fulfilling life, much more precious than any recipe.

So, if you're ever looking for a little escape, a moment of mindful creation, or a delicious taste of history, I highly recommend giving these Stage Planks a try. You might be surprised at the joy they bring, not just to your taste buds, but to your soul.

Beyond the Recipe: The story of the Stage Plank cookie reflects a broader narrative about food's ability to connect us to the past, to other cultures, and to each other. These aren't just cookies; they are a tangible link to a specific place and time. They encourage us to slow down, appreciate the process, and relish the resulting treat and the moment it's shared.

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
• In a medium bowl, sift together 3 cups flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In bowl of a standing mixer, add molasses, sugar, and butter. Mix on medium-high speed until color turns lighter, about 2 minutes.
• On low mixer speed, alternate flour and buttermilk with butter mixture. Raise speed to medium and mix 30 seconds.
• Dough should be stiff enough to roll out. If not, mix in up to 1/2 cup more flour to reach proper consistency.
• On a hard floured surface, roll dough to a 10" x 16" rectangle.
• Slice down the middle horizontally, then vertically at 2-inch intervals to make 16 cookies.
• Place individual pieces at least 1 inch apart on prepared cookie sheets.
• Bake until tops are firm, about 15 minutes.
• Remove from oven and cool completely in pans.