Gingerbread cookies

gingerbread cookies are the heart of holiday baking — cozy, fragrant, and filled with nostalgic spice in every bite. This is the kind of recipe that turns a cold afternoon into a kitchen memory, where molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves perfume the air while trays of cookies wait to be decorated.

After more than 20 years of testing holiday cookies, this version strikes the perfect balance: soft and tender in the center, lightly crisp at the edges, and sturdy enough to hold their shape for cutouts and icing. Unlike dry or overly firm recipes, these cookies stay delicious for days — making them ideal for gifting, cookie exchanges, and festive dessert platters.

The dough comes together in one bowl, chills easily, and rolls without cracking. You can bake them plain, dusted with sugar, or decorate with royal icing — the flavor shines either way. Best of all, the entire process fits comfortably into a busy schedule, with a total time of about 90 minutes including chilling.

Whether you’re baking with kids, planning a holiday party, or just craving something warm and spiced, this recipe delivers every time. Let’s make it!

Why You’ll Be Obsessed With These Gingerbread Cookies

• Soft centers with crisp edges — never dry or crumbly
• Perfectly spiced with deep molasses flavor
• Easy dough that rolls and cuts cleanly
• Holds shape beautifully for decorating
• Make-ahead and freezer friendly
• Perfect for gifting, parties, and holiday traditions

Gingerbread Cookies Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Gingerbread Cookies (Step-by-Step)

1. Mix dry ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl.
2. Cream butter & sugar: Beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add wet ingredients: Mix in egg, molasses, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to form a soft dough.
5. Chill: Wrap dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Roll & cut: Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut shapes.
7. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
8. Cool: Cool completely before decorating.

You Must Know Before Baking

• Chilling prevents spreading and boosts flavor.
• Do not overbake — cookies firm up as they cool.
• Roll dough evenly for consistent baking.
• Dust flour lightly to prevent sticking.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Room temperature: Store baked cookies up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Dough keeps for 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze dough or baked cookies up to 3 months.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free: Substitute plant-based butter.
• Extra spice: Add a pinch of black pepper.
• Chocolate-dipped: Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve gingerbread cookies with hot cocoa, spiced tea, or mulled wine. Arrange on cookie platters, package for gifts, or decorate with icing for festive displays.

Cultural Context

Gingerbread dates back centuries in Europe, where spiced breads and cookies were treasured holiday treats. Over time, gingerbread cookies became a Christmas tradition, especially for decorated cutouts and gingerbread houses.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cookies

• Use dark molasses for deeper flavor.
• Weigh flour for accuracy.
• Rotate baking sheets halfway.
• Decorate only after cookies are fully cooled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make gingerbread cookies ahead of time?

Yes. The dough and baked cookies both store well, making them ideal for advance prep.

Why did my cookies spread?

This usually means the dough wasn’t chilled enough or the butter was too warm.

Can I freeze gingerbread cookie dough?

Absolutely. Freeze tightly wrapped dough for up to 3 months.

Helpful Resources

• FDA Food Safety Guidelines
• USDA Holiday Food Safety
• American Heart Association: Healthy Eating

Did You Bake These Gingerbread Cookies?

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