Gingerbread Cookies

Name: Gingerbread Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon allspice; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; ½ cup molasses; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup confectioners' sugar; 2 teaspoons meringue powder; ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon water

By:

Thomas

Published:

November 18, 2025

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Gingerbread cookies have a way of making the holiday season feel special, don’t they? When you think about the magic of warmth, spices, and coziness, it’s hard not to picture a kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly baked goodies. But, it’s not just the smell that makes them so irresistible; it’s the fun that comes with making and decorating these delightful treats. Imagine rolling out dough, shaping it into fun figures, and adding a splash of color with icing. It’s like a holiday craft party and a tasty dessert all wrapped into one. This recipe for gingerbread cookies is perfect for bringing family and friends together. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find that these cookies are easy to make and even more enjoyable to eat. So grab your apron and let’s create some memorable moments in the kitchen with these delectable gingerbread cookies!

Why This Recipe Works

Gingerbread cookies combine warm spices, rich molasses, and a delightful texture that balances softness with a crisp bite. This recipe ensures that every cookie captures the festive spirit, remaining chewy in the center while perfectly crisped at the edges, making them irresistible. The mixture of ginger, cinnamon, and allspice creates that classic holiday flavor, transporting you to cozy gatherings and winter nights spent by the fire. Plus, the dough is sturdy enough for all the fun shapes your imagination can dream up!

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Cookies

These gingerbread cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of the holidays. Not only do they have a distinctive flavor profile, but their charming shapes also make them a wonderful addition to any gathering. You can serve them plain or, for extra fun, decorate them with royal icing. Decorating is more than just adding sweetness; it’s a creative outlet for both kids and adults. Imagine a cozy evening with loved ones, frosting sugar-coated gingerbread men, and laughing as you come up with funny designs.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon allspice
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup molasses
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Royal Icing:

1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 teaspoons meringue powder
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon water

Preparing the Gingerbread Dough

Whisk Dry Ingredients Together

To start, gather a large mixing bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt. This step is crucial because it ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough. After the dry ingredients are mixed well, set this mixture aside.

Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, it’s time to cream the softened unsalted butter and the packed brown sugar. Use a stand mixer or a hand mixer at medium speed for about 2 minutes. The goal here is to achieve a light and fluffy mixture, which will be the base of our rich cookies.

Add Wet Ingredients

Next, incorporate the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Just beat until everything is combined; you don’t want to over-mix. This adds moisture and flavor to the cookies.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to blend the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, beating on low speed. Keep mixing until everything is just combined. The dough will form a ball; if it seems too dry, feel free to add in a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

Chilling the Dough

Form and Chill Dough

Once your dough is ready, divide it in half, shaping each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about an inch thick and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This is a critical step—chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or even overnight. Chilling helps the flavors meld and also makes it easier to roll out later.

Baking the Gingerbread Cookies

Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with silicone baking mats or parchment paper. This prep makes for easy cleanup later.

Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, take one dough disc out of the refrigerator. If it was chilled overnight, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.

Cut Out Cookies

Use your favorite cookie cutter—5-inch gingerbread man shapes are classic, but feel free to be creative! Carefully transfer the cut cookies to the prepared baking sheets. If you have leftover dough, don’t worry! Just refrigerate it while you cut the first batch.

Bake the Cookies

Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are crisp. Once done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This waiting period helps set the shape of the cookies.

Making the Royal Icing

Prepare Icing

While your cookies are cooling, you can prepare the royal icing. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and meringue powder. Add the vanilla extract and water, mixing with an electric hand mixer on medium-high speed until the icing becomes smooth.

Adjust Consistency

If you find that your icing is too thin, simply add more confectioners’ sugar. If it’s too thick, just a little water at a time will help until you reach that perfect pipeable consistency.

Decorating the Cookies

Pipe Icing Onto Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Transfer the royal icing to a piping bag fitted with a fine round tip, such as Wilton #2. Carefully pipe the icing onto the cooled gingerbread cookies. Get creative with your designs!

Serving Suggestions

You can serve these festive gingerbread cookies at holiday gatherings, alongside hot cocoa, or as part of a cookie exchange. They also make great edible gifts when beautifully packaged. Imagine your friends and family’s faces when they receive such a thoughtful treat!

Tips for Success

Allow the dough to chill thoroughly for better handling.
Use a variety of cookie cutters to create different shapes and sizes.
Mix it up a little! Experiment with various icing colors for a fun decorating experience that reflects your personal style.

Variations

For a unique twist, consider incorporating chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added texture. You might also try experimenting with different spices beyond the traditional ginger and cinnamon. Customizing your gingerbread cookies could turn them into a family favorite!

Storage Tips

To keep your delicious gingerbread cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’ve decorated them with royal icing, just let the icing set for at least 3 hours, or overnight, before stacking them to prevent damage.

Pairing Ideas

These cookies pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of spiced tea or a glass of milk. If you want to jazz it up a bit, try them with a festive fruit compote for a delicious flavor contrast that balances sweetness and spice.

FAQs

How do I know when gingerbread cookies are done?
Look for crisp edges and a slightly firm surface; they will harden further as they cool.

Can I freeze gingerbread cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

What can I use instead of meringue powder in the icing?
You can substitute meringue powder with egg whites; just remember to use the icing immediately.

How long will royal icing stay firm?
Royal icing generally hardens within a few hours and can last for several days if stored properly.

Can I decorate the cookies right after baking?
Let the cookies cool completely before decorating to prevent the icing from melting.

Gingerbread cookies can turn a simple moment into something magical. They make your holidays sweeter and offer countless opportunities to connect with others. Whether you’re involved in a holiday party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these cookies are sure to bring joy and laughter into your space. So, gather your loved ones, and let’s spread some happiness this season!