Gingerbread Cookies
Indulge in the holiday spirit with these impeccably soft and chewy gingerbread cookies that are an absolute must-have during the festive season. These timeless Christmas treats not only possess an irresistible charm, but they also boast a delightful flavor that we simply can't resist. Infused with warming spices, they strike the perfect balance, offering crisp edges and a tender, soft center. Furthermore, these cookies provide an exciting opportunity for creativity as they are an absolute joy to decorate. Transform the process into a holiday activity that brings everyone together, resulting in the sweetest homemade food gift to share with friends and family.Rest assured, we meticulously tested this recipe numerous times until we achieved gingerbread perfection. Here, we have compiled everything you need to know about successfully recreating this beloved holiday tradition in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients
- 3/4 c. (1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened
- 3/4 c. packed brown sugar
- 2/3 c. molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 3 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp. ground ginger
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 2" piece fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- 1/2 tsp. finely ground black pepper (optional)
- Sugar cookie icing, for decorating
- Sprinkles, for decorating
Instructions
- In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat butter, brown sugar, and molasses until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add egg and vanilla and beat until combined.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, spices, baking soda, and salt until combined. With the mixer on low, gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, as well as fresh ginger, orange zest, and black pepper (if using), until dough just comes together. (Do not overmix!)
- Divide dough in half and create two discs. Wrap each in plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 2 to 3 hours. (Alternatively, divide dough in half and roll each piece of dough between two pieces of parchment to 1/4" thick. Chill until firm.)
- Preheat oven to 350° and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Place one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface and roll until 1/4" thick. (Alternatively, peel off both sheets of parchment from dough, then replace one sheet of parchment back underneath dough.) Cut out gingerbread men with a 3" wide cutter and transfer to baking sheets.
- Bake until slightly puffed and set, 9 to 10 minutes, depending on the size of your cookie cutters. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Repeat with remaining disc of dough. Decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired.
Nutrition
Calories: 4223kcalCarbohydrates: 663gProtein: 52gFat: 148gSaturated Fat: 90gTrans Fat: 6gCholesterol: 552mgSodium: 2434mgPotassium: 4469mgFiber: 17gSugar: 357gCalcium: 828mgIron: 33mg
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