Gingerbread Cookies Recipe (with Video)

Gingerbread Cookies Recipe: Gingerbread cookies are a holiday favorite, filling homes with their warm, spiced aroma and offering a delicious, festive treat. Whether you love them crispy or chewy, these cookies bring joy to people of all ages. Gingerbread cookies have been around for centuries, originating in Europe, and are now a staple in Christmas traditions worldwide.

If you’ve ever wanted to bake the perfect gingerbread cookies from scratch, you’re in the right place. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have delicious, beautifully decorated cookies in no time!

Ingredients Needed

Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅔ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins and Decorations:

• Royal icing for decorating
• Sprinkles, chocolate chips, or edible glitter
• Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Gingerbread Cookies – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

The first step in making gingerbread cookies is preparing the dough. This ensures the right texture and taste.

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. This helps create a smooth dough.
3. Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or using a mixer on low speed.
5. Knead the dough: Once combined, knead the dough with your hands until smooth. Avoid over-kneading, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 2: Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough is essential for the perfect gingerbread cookie texture.

1. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
2. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes in the freezer works.
3. Chilled dough is easier to roll and cut, preventing cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 3: Rolling and Cutting the Dough

Now it’s time to roll out the dough and shape your cookies.

1. Lightly flour a clean surface and rolling pin.
2. Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Too thick will make soft cookies, too thin will make crispy ones.
3. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes like gingerbread men, stars, or trees.
4. Place the cut cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

Step 4: Baking the Cookies

Proper baking ensures your cookies turn out just right.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 8-10 minutes for soft cookies and 10-12 minutes for crispier ones.
3. Check for doneness: The edges should be firm, and the center slightly soft.
4. Cool on a wire rack before decorating.

Step 5: Cooling the Cookies Properly

Let the cookies cool completely before decorating. This prevents icing from melting and keeps the cookies from becoming soggy.

1. Transfer baked cookies to a wire rack.
2. Let them cool for at least 15-20 minutes.
3. Store in an airtight container until ready to decorate.

Step 6: Decorating the Gingerbread Cookies

Make your cookies festive with beautiful decorations!

1. Prepare royal icing: Mix powdered sugar, egg whites, and a few drops of lemon juice. Adjust consistency as needed.
2. Use a piping bag: Pipe outlines, draw faces, or create intricate patterns.
3. Add sprinkles or chocolate: Use fun toppings for extra color and flavor.

Step 7: Storing the Cookies

To keep your gingerbread cookies fresh:

1. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
2. Freeze cookies for longer storage (up to 3 months).
3. Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Gingerbread cookies are best enjoyed with:

• A glass of warm milk
• A cup of coffee or hot chocolate
• As holiday gifts wrapped in decorative tins

FAQs about Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for gingerbread cookies?

For a basic gingerbread cookie recipe, you’ll need flour, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, butter, dark brown sugar, egg, and molasses. Optional ingredients can include vanilla extract, nutmeg, and allspice for added flavor.

2. How long does it take to make gingerbread cookies?

Preparation time is typically around 20 minutes. After mixing your dough, it should chill for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal for the best flavor and texture. Baking time ranges from 8 to 10 minutes per batch, depending on cookie size.

3. Can I make gingerbread cookies ahead of time?

Yes, gingerbread cookies are perfect for making ahead. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Baked cookies also store well. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

4. Do I need any special equipment to make gingerbread cookies?

While not strictly necessary, certain tools can make the process easier. A rolling pin, cookie cutters in festive shapes, parchment paper, and a mixer are helpful. For decorating, a piping bag and nozzles are great for detailed icing work.

5. What is the best way to decorate gingerbread cookies?

Royal icing is the traditional choice for decorating gingerbread cookies. It dries hard and smooth, making it ideal for intricate designs. You can color it with food coloring and use small candies, sprinkles, or edible glitter for extra decoration.

6. Are there any tips for making perfect gingerbread cookies?

Ensure your dough is chilled thoroughly to make it easier to handle. Roll the dough evenly for uniform baking, and don’t over-bake to avoid hard cookies. Let cookies cool completely before decorating to prevent icing from melting.

7. Can I make gingerbread cookies vegan or gluten-free?

Yes, to make them vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Always check the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to mimic the texture of traditional cookies.

Conclusion

Baking gingerbread cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. With this step-by-step guide, you can create delicious cookies that are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Try different decorations and make them uniquely yours!