Spice Up Your Holidays with These Irresistible Gingerbread Cookies
Few treats capture the joy of the holiday season like gingerbread cookies. With their warm spices and chewy texture, these classic cookies are a must-have for festive gatherings. Whether you’re baking with family or sharing them as gifts, this recipe will fill your home with the cozy aroma of the holidays.
Ingredients for Perfect Gingerbread Cookies
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed in the dough.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates a soft cookie texture.
Step 4: Add Molasses, Egg, and Vanilla
Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined. The molasses gives the dough its signature flavor and deep color.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
Step 6: Roll and Cut
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to create festive shapes like stars, trees, or gingerbread people. Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies moist and chewy.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter.
Customizing Your Gingerbread Cookies
- Decorating Fun: Get creative with icing and toppings for a festive touch.
- Flavor Twist: Add mini chocolate chips or candied ginger for a unique flavor boost.
- Make Ahead: Refrigerate the dough overnight for easier handling and even better flavor.
Why Gingerbread Cookies Are a Holiday Classic
Gingerbread cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a symbol of holiday tradition and joy. Their warm spices evoke nostalgic memories, making them a beloved part of seasonal celebrations. Whether used as edible ornaments or gifts, these cookies bring people together.
As food writer Laurie Colwin said, “No one who cooks, cooks alone. A cook is surrounded by generations of cooks past and the advice of cooks present.” Baking these cookies is a way to connect with the past while creating new memories.
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Pairing and Gifting
Pair these gingerbread cookies with hot cocoa, spiced cider, or mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat. Package them in festive tins or cellophane bags with ribbons to share as thoughtful gifts for friends and neighbors.
A Sweet Holiday Tradition
There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked gingerbread cookies to welcome the holiday season. This simple recipe lets you create delightful treats that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night by the fire, these cookies are guaranteed to make your holidays special.
Happy baking, and don’t forget to share the joy by passing this recipe along to your loved ones!
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