Name: Gingerbread Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 cup molasses; 1 large egg; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground cloves; 0.5 teaspoon salt

Okay, friends, let me tell you about these..Gingerbread Cookies: What. Forget those dry, crumbly ones you find at the store. These are soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices. They’re like a hug in cookie form! I know you’re probably thinking, “gingerbread cookies, really?” “But trust me, these are in a whole different league than those bland sugar cookies some people try. To pass off as festive. This recipe came from my grandma, and it’s been a holiday staple in our family for generations. Every year, the smell of these baking fills the house, and it instantly feels like Christmas. Is it really that easy to make a hat?

What is gingerbread cookies?

Gingerbread is a sugar cookie. Think of it as the spicier cousin of the classic sugar cookies. It’s essentially a cookie flavored with ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes nutmeg. In ancient times, ginger was traditionally used to preserve cookies. The name comes from the fact that ginger is still used today. ), and “bread” was just a general term for baked goods. What makes gingerbread cookies different is the warm, slightly spicy flavor. It’s not overpowering, but it is definitely there, and it just screams “holidays! Plus, they’re perfect for decorating, cutting into fun shapes, and leaving out for Santa (or any other holiday). What are some of the best ways to enjoy yourself?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What is the flavor of gingerbread cookies? What are some of the best molasses teas?Gingerbread Cookies: WhatThey’re also surprisingly easy to make. I’m not kidding, even if you’re not a baking pro, you can nail this recipe. What I love about this is that it’s a budget-friendly treat. What are some pantry staples that don’t have to break the bank to make a good meal? Why don’t you like cloves? Leave them out! What is the best flavor for ginger? Add a little more! I make gingerbread men every year with this recipe, my kids absolutely adore it! What is a classic?

How do you make gingerbread cookies?

Quick Overview

What are some of the best gingerbread cookies you have ever made? I’ll start by mixing the dry ingredients, then creaming together the butter and sugar. How do you mix wet and dry ingredients, chill the dough, roll it out, cut out your shapes, etc.? Is it safe to bake them until golden brown? How do you decorate a cookie with icing and sprinkles? What is the importance of chilling cookies? How do you spread too much in the oven?

Ingredients

For the main battery:
* 3 cups all-purpose flour: I prefer unbleached for the best flavor and texture. * 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and get that perfect soft texture. * 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: A little extra lift! * 1 tablespoon ground ginger: What makes these cookies so delicious? * 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice. A little goes a long way with cloves – they can be overpowering if you use too much. * 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Just a hint of cinnamon rounds out the flavors. * 1/2 teaspoon salt: * 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Balances the sweetness. Make sure it’s softened, not melted, for the best creaming. Adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor. * 1/2 cup molasses: What gives gingerbread cookies their unique flavor? Adds moisture to the ingredients. * 2 tablespoons of milk: adds moistness.

For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar: Sift it for a smoother glaze. * 2-3 tablespoons milk: Add it to the recipe. Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency. * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon. Optional, but it adds a nice flavor.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper is a lifesaver here because it prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper. Add the dry ingredients. What is the best combination of cinnamon, Whisking is important because it helps to evenly distribute the spices throughout the flour. I always give it a good whisk for at least 30 seconds.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Then, beat in the molasses, egg, and milk until well combined. Make sure your butter is truly softened, otherwise, you’ll end up with lumps. I sometimes warm mine in the microwave, but be careful not to melt it!

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix cookies, as this can result in hard cookies. I usually stop mixing when there are still streaks of flour, then finish it off with a little bit of water.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days) before using. This is a crucial step, so don’t skip it! How do I keep cookies from spreading in the oven?

Step 6: Roll & Cut

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. I like to use a variety of gingerbread men, stars, and Christmas trees.

Step 7: Bake

Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Is it golden brown? Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily. Every oven is different, so adjust the baking time as needed.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’re cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cookies and decorate with sprinkles, if desired. I like to use a piping bag for a more precise application.

Step 9: Enjoy!

What are your favorite gingerbread cookies? What are some good snacks to give to family and friends, or leave out for Santa? Is it safe to eat all the vegetables in one sitting?

What should I serve it with?

What are some good gingerbread cookies to make? What are

For Breakfast:Enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or tea. I love dunking these cookies in my coffee. The spices in the cookies pair perfectly with a strong brew.

For Brunch:Serve them on a platter with other holiday treats like fruit, cheese, and crackers. What are some of the best ways to add festive touches to a brunch table?

As Dessert:Gingerbread cookies are the perfect after-dinner treat. Serve them with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

For Cozy Snacks:What’s a better way to curl up on the couch with gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate? What is the ultimate comfort food?

My family tradition is to make these every year on Christmas Eve and leave some out for Santa. Is it fun to play with your kids? And honestly, sometimes I sneak one or two before Santa arrives!

How do you make gingerbread cookies?

How do I make gingerbread cookies?

Spice it Up:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices. Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to your favorite dish for an extra special flavor. I once added a little bit of star anise and it was amazing!

Molasses MattersWhy is blackstrap molasses bitter?

Rolling Tips:To prevent dough from sticking, roll it out between two sheets of parchment paper. What is the easiest way to transfer cut-out shapes to a baking sheet?

Baking Secrets:Bake the cookies until they’re golden around the edges. Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly cookies.

Glaze Variations:For a citrusy glaze, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the powdered sugar mixture. What are some different flavor combinations of peppermint and almond?

Decorating Ideas: Get creative with your decorations! Use different colors of icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter to make your gingerbread cookies truly stand out. My kids love using mini chocolate chips and candy canes.

One year, I accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted, and the cookies were way too salty. Trust me, unsalted butter is the way to go! And I always make sure to measure my spices carefully, because too much of one spice can ruin the whole batch.

Storing and Reheating Tips

These gingerbread cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later.

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and chewy.

Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the cookies, it’s best to glaze them just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or melting.

I usually make a big batch of these cookies and freeze half of them for later. They’re perfect for unexpected guests or a quick holiday treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend using a blend that contains xanthan gum, as it helps to bind the ingredients together and prevent the cookies from being too crumbly. You may need to add a little more liquid to the dough, as gluten-free flours tend to absorb more moisture. Just add a tablespoon of milk at a time until the dough comes together.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. It also helps to develop the flavors and make the dough easier to work with. I recommend chilling the dough for at least 1 hour, but you can chill it for up to overnight.

Can I make this as gingerbread men instead?

Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly for gingerbread men. Just use a gingerbread man cookie cutter to cut out the shapes. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as larger cookies will take longer to bake.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar by 1/4 cup. You can also use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in place of some of the brown sugar. Just keep in mind that this may affect the texture of the cookies.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can simply dust the cookies with powdered sugar. You can also use melted chocolate or a cream cheese frosting for a richer topping. Or, you can skip the topping altogether and enjoy the cookies plain!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my family’s secret recipe for the best gingerbread cookies ever! I truly believe that these cookies are worth trying because they’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for spreading holiday cheer. They’re also a great way to get the whole family involved in the baking process. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other holiday treats, like my famous sugar cookies and my decadent chocolate fudge. Happy baking, friends! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your gingerbread cookies turned out. I can’t wait to hear your variations and decorating ideas!