National Gingersnap Day Date in the current year: July 1, 2026

Gingersnaps, which are flavored with ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and sometimes allspice, appeared in medieval Germany. Their predecessor was Lebkuchen, the German Christmas version of gingerbread cookies. The first mentions of Lebkuchen date back to 1296 and 1395. However, we're certain that this type of cookie was known to the Germans even earlier.

Lebkuchen evolved into different varieties of gingersnaps, and every country has its own preferences for making them. For example, Scandinavian gingersnaps are very thin and crispy, while American and British gingersnaps are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.

Gingersnaps are similar to gingerbread, although gingerbread is traditionally made in different shapes. Gingersnaps are always plain, round cookies, and they're easy to make. Enjoy your favorite gingersnaps with a cup of tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or milk. If you want something refreshing, try combining gingersnaps with ice cream or frozen yogurt.