Description
Gingerbread Cookies are a classic holiday treat that fills your home with the comforting aromas of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Perfect for decorating with family and friends, these delightful cut-out cookies bring joy to any festive occasion. The sturdy texture makes them ideal for creative designs, allowing bakers of all skill levels to enjoy the fun of cookie decorating. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas gatherings or cozy winter nights, this easy-to-follow recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Optional: zest of one small orange
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar (for icing), sprinkles, candy
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking soda, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
- Place cookies on lined baking sheets and bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Let cool before decorating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (28g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg