Make this family of gingerbread cookies for your next holiday party. This Gingerbread Cookies Recipe is not only perfect for the festive season but also brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The delightful aroma of spices fills your kitchen, making it a wonderful experience for everyone involved. These cookies are versatile and can be decorated to match any occasion, ensuring they stand out at holiday events.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process of baking gingerbread cookies, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices like ginger and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting taste that everyone loves.
• Perfect for Decorating: Ideal for family fun, these cookies provide a blank canvas for creative decorating with icing and sprinkles.
• Makes a Great Gift: Packaged beautifully, they make charming gifts during the holiday season.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for special occasion parties, winter gatherings, or simply as a cozy treat at home.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Gingerbread Cookies Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way. These items ensure that your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort in mixing ingredients thoroughly for a fluffy dough.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy when baking cookies.
• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out the cookie dough, crucial for uniform baking.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Gingerbread Cookies Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams, room temperature (2 sticks))
• ½ cup dark brown sugar (107 grams)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt (5 grams)
• ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 1 large egg (50 grams, room temperature and lightly beaten)
• 2 tablespoons unsulphured molasses (43 grams)
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (270 grams)
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger (9 grams)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams)
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice (3 grams)
• ¾ teaspoon ground cloves
• Icing and sprinkles (for decorating)

How to Make Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and both salts together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the egg and molasses, mixing at medium speed until well combined, about 1 minute.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, apple pie spice, and ground cloves.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the stand mixer on low speed until just combined. Take care not to overmix; this will keep your cookies tender.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

1. Scrape down the sides of your bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is mixed well.
2. Divide the dough in half. Place one half on parchment paper, roll it out to about ⅜-inch thick, then transfer it to a sheet pan using parchment paper.
3. Repeat with the second half of dough. Stack them on top of each other on the sheet pan, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least two hours.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

1. After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cut shapes from the chilled dough using cookie cutters and place them onto prepared baking sheets.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are just beginning to darken.

Step 6: Cool and Decorate

1. Remove from oven; let cool on baking sheets for one minute before transferring to a cooling rack.
2. Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating them as desired with icing and sprinkles.

Enjoy making these delightful gingerbread cookies!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

Gingerbread cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy snack, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: Pairing gingerbread cookies with a hot cup of coffee enhances their spiced flavor.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the warm spices in the cookies.
• Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea bring out the best in gingerbread cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Include gingerbread cookies alongside other holiday favorites for a festive dessert spread.
• Fruit and Nut Mix: Add some dried fruits and nuts to balance the sweetness and provide texture.

Decorated as Gifts

• Gift Bags: Package decorated gingerbread cookies in festive bags for a charming homemade gift.
• Cookie Jars: Fill jars with cookies and tie them with ribbons for an eye-catching presentation.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

Perfecting your gingerbread cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.

• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least two hours helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method to avoid using too much flour, which can lead to tough cookies.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined creates tender cookies; overmixing can make them dense.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

Gingerbread cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Spiced Applesauce: A warm bowl of applesauce spiced with cinnamon complements the flavors of gingerbread.
2. Cream Cheese Frosting: This rich frosting adds a creamy texture that’s perfect for topping your cookies.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream provides a sweet contrast to the spiced cookie.
4. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar gives an extra sweet touch when serving.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess balances out the warm spices beautifully.
6. Mixed Berries: Fresh berries add brightness and acidity, making for a refreshing side dish.
7. Toasted Nuts: Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch and richness when served alongside cookies.
8. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made with seasonal fruits can elevate the dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread cookies can be enjoyable, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined for a softer texture.
• Skipping refrigeration: Failing to chill the dough can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate for at least two hours.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in unevenly cooked cookies. Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F before baking.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Mismeasuring can affect the cookie’s taste and texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups accurately.
• Ignoring cooling time: Decorating cookies that are still warm can lead to messy results. Allow them to cool completely first.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store gingerbread cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

• Place completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for up to three months; then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheating Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people ask about this gingerbread cookies recipe.

What makes this Gingerbread Cookies Recipe special?

This recipe combines rich spices and molasses, offering a warm flavor perfect for holidays or any occasion.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly, making them denser.

How do I customize my Gingerbread Cookies Recipe?

You can customize by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices based on your preference!

How do I decorate my Gingerbread Cookies?

Use icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter. Be creative with shapes and designs!

Final Thoughts

This gingerbread cookies recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. Its delightful flavors and potential for customization make it appealing to everyone. Try experimenting with different decorations or mix-ins to create your unique version of these festive treats!

Print

Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Bake your way into the holiday spirit with this delightful Gingerbread Cookies Recipe! Perfect for festive gatherings and cozy family nights, these cookies are infused with warm spices like ginger and cinnamon, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you choose to decorate them creatively with icing and sprinkles or leave them plain, they make for a charming treat. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Enjoy these cookies as gifts or serve them alongside hot beverages for an extra special touch during the holiday season.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
• 2 tablespoons unsulphured molasses
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
• ¾ teaspoon ground cloves
• Icing and sprinkles (for decorating)

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Instructions

1. In a stand mixer, cream together unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and both salts until light and fluffy. Add the egg and molasses, mixing until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and spices (ginger, cinnamon, apple pie spice, cloves).
3. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture on low speed until just combined.
4. Divide dough in half; roll out each half between parchment paper to about ⅜-inch thick. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut shapes from chilled dough and place on lined baking sheets.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges darken slightly. Cool before decorating.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Refrigerating the dough is crucial to prevent spreading during baking. Customize by adding chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor.