Gingerbread Cookies Recipe: A Festive Favorite

Introduction to Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a holiday classic, filling the kitchen with warm spices and nostalgia. Perfect for Christmas or winter gatherings, this gingerbread cookies recipe is easy to make and fun to decorate. This guide shares a recipe, tips, and decorating ideas.

Why Gingerbread Cookies Are Special

Gingerbread cookies are cherished for their:

• Warm Flavors: Cinnamon, ginger, and molasses create a cozy taste.
• Versatility: Shape into men, houses, or stars.
• Fun Decorating: Ideal for kids and adults.

They’re a great addition to Christmas cookies platters.

Classic Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

Here’s a gingerbread cookies recipe for about 24 cookies:

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in molasses, egg, and vanilla.
4. Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to form a dough.
5. Chill: Wrap dough and refrigerate for 2 hours.
6. Roll and Cut: Roll to 1/4-inch thickness, cut shapes, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
8. Cool: Cool on a wire rack before decorating.

Decorating Gingerbread Cookies

• Royal Icing: Mix 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tbsp meringue powder, and 3 tbsp water. Pipe designs.
• Candies: Add gumdrops or M&Ms for buttons.
• Sprinkles: Use for festive sparkle.

These make gingerbread cookies perfect for Christmas cookies.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cookies

• Chill Dough: Prevents spreading.
• Don’t Overbake: Cookies should be soft when removed.
• Measure Spices Carefully: For balanced flavor.

These ensure flawless gingerbread cookies.

Variations on Gingerbread Cookies

• Chocolate Gingerbread: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Soft Gingerbread: Reduce baking time by 1 minute.

These keep gingerbread cookies exciting.

Storing and Freezing

• Store: Keep in an airtight container for 7 days.
• Freeze Dough: Freeze for 3 months.
• Freeze Cookies: Store for 2 months.

Perfect for holiday prep with Christmas cookies.

Conclusion

This gingerbread cookies recipe brings holiday cheer to any kitchen. Bake a batch and explore our website for more recipes like chocolate chip cookie recipe or beef stew recipe.