Gingerbread Cookies: A Perfect & Delicious Classic

Jump to Recipe

Nothing says the holiday season quite like the smell of gingerbread cookies baking in your oven. These delightful, spiced cookies bring a warm, cozy feeling that everyone loves. Baking gingerbread cookies is fun and straightforward, making it a perfect project for complete beginners. You can enjoy them as an evening treat or share them with friends and family at gatherings. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Treat

Gingerbread cookies are a fantastic choice for beginners because they are forgiving and delicious. The combination of butter, sugar, and warm spices creates a wonderful flavor that can lighten any day. You don’t need fancy skills to make them, and the steps are easy to follow. No fail, easy to enjoy – it’s a beginner’s dream!

How to Make Gingerbread Cookies

Making gingerbread cookies involves a few simple steps. First, you mix the butter and sugar to create a fluffy base. Then, you add in an egg and molasses for richness. In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients, such as flour and spices. Finally, mix everything together, form dough balls, and bake. It’s that straightforward!

Ingredients:

3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup molasses, unsulphured
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon (or 2 tsp for a stronger flavor)
1/2 tsp dried ground ginger (or 1-2 tsp for a stronger flavor)
Optional: granulated sugar to roll cookie dough balls in

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Mix together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add egg and molasses, and mix well.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ginger, stirring to blend.
Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
Form or scoop balls of dough slightly smaller than a golf ball; roll in granulated sugar if desired.
Place on a baking sheet 2-3 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, remove from the baking sheet, and cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Bake the best Gingerbread Cookies! This easy recipe yields soft, spiced cookies perfect for decorating. The ultimate festive holiday treat.

Best Way to Serve Gingerbread Cookies

You can serve gingerbread cookies as a delightful treat at any time. They are perfect for holiday parties or cozy evenings with a cup of tea or hot cocoa. Enjoy them warm, or let them cool completely before sharing. You can even decorate them with icing if you want to get creative!

Best Way to Store Gingerbread Cookies

Store your gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for about one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place them in a freezer bag, and they will stay suitable for up to three months. When you want to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature.

Helpful Tips for Gingerbread Cookies

To make the best gingerbread cookies, ensure your butter is soft and easy to mix. When you combine the sugar and butter, mix until fluffy. You should be able to see small air bubbles. If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour. Bake just until the edges are set; they will continue to firm up after removing them from the oven.

Variations

Chocolate Chip Gingerbread Cookies: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist.
Nutty Gingerbread: Mix in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling into balls.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to three months.

What can I use instead of molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup, but the flavor will change slightly.

Conclusion

Gingerbread cookies are a delightful and easy way to bring warmth to your kitchen. They provide an outstanding balance of spice and sweetness that everyone can enjoy. Whether you are preparing them for a special occasion or just a simple treat, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. You’ll feel proud of your cooking skills with each bite!

I’d love to hear how your gingerbread cookies turn out! Feel free to share your baking experience in the comments. If you know someone else who is learning to bake, share this recipe with them, and let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Explore more beginner-friendly dessert recipes on the blog, and happy baking!

Gingerbread Cookies Recipe