Gingerbread Cookies – Warmly Spiced and Perfectly Soft

These classic Gingerbread Cookies are a timeless holiday treat with the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and festive charm. Infused with molasses, cinnamon, and ginger, they deliver that cozy, nostalgic aroma that fills the kitchen during the holidays. Whether you decorate them with royal icing or enjoy them plain, these cookies bring a little extra magic to your baking season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced for the holidays.
• Easy to roll out and cut into fun festive shapes.
• Great for decorating with kids or as edible gifts.
• Freezer-friendly dough you can make ahead.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• ⅔ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional for Decorating

• Royal icing or simple sugar glaze
• Sprinkles or decorative sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla: Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. The dough will be thick.
5. Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
6. Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll and cut: Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
8. Bake: Place cookies 1 inch apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to brown.
9. Cool and decorate: Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cool, decorate as desired.

Tips & Variations

• Soft Cookies Tip: For extra soft cookies, slightly underbake them and store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread.
• Crispier Version: Roll thinner and bake 1–2 minutes longer.
• Flavor Boost: Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
• Decoration Ideas: Use royal icing, white chocolate drizzle, or crushed peppermint.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store: Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freeze Dough: Shape dough into discs, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling.
• Freeze Baked Cookies: Once cooled, freeze cookies in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Enjoy with a warm mug of hot cocoa or spiced tea.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a holiday dessert twist.
• Serve on a cookie platter with sugar cookies and chocolate crinkles.
• Perfect gift when wrapped in a tin or clear bag with ribbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep gingerbread cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of fresh bread or apple — the cookies will absorb moisture and stay soft for days.

Can I use blackstrap molasses?

Blackstrap molasses is too bitter for cookies. Use regular or mild molasses for a balanced, rich flavor.

Why does my dough crack when rolling?

If the dough is too cold, let it rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before rolling. Cracks mean it’s slightly over-chilled.

Can I decorate these cookies before baking?

You can press sprinkles or sugar before baking, but save icing or glaze decorations for after cooling.

Ready to Make It?

Get your rolling pin ready, it’s time to bake the ultimate Gingerbread Cookies that will fill your home with warmth and sweet holiday cheer. Save this recipe to Pinterest or share it with friends who love baking festive treats.

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