Festive Recipe Recommendation: Classic Gingerbread Cookies
Nothing says Christmas like the warm, spiced aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies wafting through the house. These classic treats are a holiday staple, perfect for sharing with loved ones or decorating as a fun family activity. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or looking for a homemade gift idea, gingerbread cookies are a delightful choice for the season.
Classic Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the royal icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
Step 4: Roll and Cut
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use festive cookie cutters (e.g., gingerbread men, stars, trees) to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Icing
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or milk as needed.
- Divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring if desired.
Step 7: Decorate
- Once the cookies are completely cool, use a piping bag or a spoon to decorate with royal icing. Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or candy accents for extra flair.
Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cookies
- Chill the Dough: This step is crucial for easier rolling and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Adjust Spices: Tailor the spice blend to your taste. Add extra ginger for a bolder flavor or more cinnamon for a sweeter profile.
- Get Creative: Use icing to personalize cookies with names, patterns, or holiday-themed designs.
- Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months.
Why This Recipe Fits the Christmas Spirit
Gingerbread cookies are synonymous with holiday cheer. Their spiced aroma evokes memories of cozy gatherings, snowy evenings, and festive fun. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa or gifting a beautifully decorated batch to a friend, these cookies capture the magic of the season.
Gather your loved ones, play some Christmas music, and start baking—because nothing warms the heart like the joy of making (and eating) gingerbread cookies together.
Happy holidays and happy baking!