Gingerbread Cookies

Name: Gingerbread Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 large egg; Royal icing; Sprinkles; Candy decorations

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

Delightful and aromatic, these Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for the holiday season and beyond.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:30:43.834Z

These Gingerbread Cookies bring a warm and spicy flavor to your holiday gatherings. The delightful aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg will fill your kitchen and create memories with every bite.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Irresistibly spiced with warm ginger and cinnamon
Fun to decorate and perfect for holiday gifting
Soft on the inside with a slight crunch on the outside

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Gingerbread cookies are a quintessential part of holiday traditions, bringing warmth and joy to gatherings with their aromatic spices. These delightful cookies not only fill your home with a comforting scent but also create lasting memories as family and friends come together to bake and decorate them. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to add a festive touch to your celebrations.

One of the best things about gingerbread cookies is their versatility. You can cut them into various shapes, from classic gingerbread men to festive stars and ornaments. This makes them a fun activity for kids and adults alike, allowing everyone to unleash their creativity. With a little icing and some colorful sprinkles, you can transform these cookies into personalized masterpieces, making them perfect for gifting during the holiday season.

A Taste of Tradition

Gingerbread has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with origins linked to medieval Europe. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a beloved holiday treat, celebrated for its unique blend of spices. Each bite of these cookies offers a taste of tradition, combining the warmth of ginger, the sweetness of molasses, and the aromatic notes of cinnamon and cloves. It's like taking a delicious bite out of history, bringing a sense of nostalgia with every morsel.

As you enjoy these gingerbread cookies, you’re not just indulging in a tasty treat; you’re also participating in a long-standing cultural tradition. Many families have their own unique recipes passed down through generations, making each batch special. Whether you stick to the classic flavors or experiment with your own twist, baking gingerbread cookies is an experience that connects you to the past while creating new memories for the future.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup molasses
1 large egg

For Decoration (optional)

Royal icing
Sprinkles
Candy decorations

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cut and Bake

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm.

Cool and Decorate

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cool, decorate with royal icing and sprinkles if desired.

Enjoy your delicious gingerbread cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Gingerbread Cookies

To ensure your gingerbread cookies stay fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can be stored for up to three months.

For best results, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature before enjoying them. If you’ve decorated your cookies, it’s advisable to freeze them unadorned to maintain the integrity of the icing. Once thawed, you can add your decorations for a fresh and festive look.

Decorating Ideas

Decorating gingerbread cookies is one of the most enjoyable parts of the baking process. You can use royal icing to create intricate designs, or even simple patterns that kids will love. Consider using different colors of icing to add personality to each cookie. Using sprinkles, edible glitter, or candy decorations can also enhance the festive feel, making your cookies a true visual treat.

If you're looking for inspiration, try creating themed cookies based on holidays or events. For example, use red and green icing for Christmas, pastel colors for Easter, or vibrant hues for birthday parties. The possibilities are endless, and each decorated cookie can become a unique piece of art that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.

Gifting Gingerbread Cookies

Homemade gingerbread cookies make for thoughtful gifts that show you care. Package them in a decorative box or tin, and consider adding a personalized note. This gesture adds a heartfelt touch, making your gift even more special. They are perfect for sharing with friends, family, or colleagues during the holiday season.

Furthermore, you can create custom cookie gift sets by pairing gingerbread cookies with other homemade treats, such as fudge or peppermint bark. This combination not only offers a variety of flavors but also showcases your baking skills. Whether for holiday parties, potlucks, or as a simple 'thank you' gift, gingerbread cookies are a delightful way to spread joy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

→ What can I use instead of molasses?

You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, but the flavor will differ slightly.