These Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a classic holiday treat with a perfectly spiced, chewy texture and a warm, comforting aroma. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a simple homemade treat, these cookies bring the magic of gingerbread to your kitchen in an irresistible way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these cookies combine a delicate balance of spices with a soft, tender texture that melts in my mouth. They’re easy to make, versatile enough for creative decorating, and ideal for baking with family or friends during the holidays.
Ingredients
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg).
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, and beat until combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed.
Once the dough forms, divide it into two portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
Shape the Cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Cut out shapes using cookie cutters, or create freehand shapes.
Roll in Sugar:
Roll each cookie in granulated sugar before placing it on the baking sheet, adding a sparkle to the finish.
Bake the Cookies:
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are firm but the centers are soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Decorate (Optional):
Once completely cool, decorate the cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, or any decorations of your choice.
Servings and Timing
Servings: About 24 cookies (depending on size)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Bake Time: 8-10 minutes
Variations
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
Extra Spiced: Add a pinch of cardamom or extra nutmeg for a bolder flavor.
Healthier Option: Swap butter with coconut oil and use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar.
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2 1/2 tablespoons water).
Storage/Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Freezer: Freeze undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating or serving.
Reheating: To freshen cookies, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Related Recipes:
- The Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies
- Gingerbread Cookie Bars
- Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze
FAQs
How do I prevent my gingerbread cookies from spreading?
Chilling the dough before rolling and cutting ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, I often make the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight.
What type of molasses is best for gingerbread cookies?
I use unsulfured molasses for its mild, sweet flavor. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it’s too bitter for this recipe.
Can I decorate these cookies with kids?
Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for kids to decorate with icing, sprinkles, or candy.
Why are my cookies hard after baking?
Overbaking can cause the cookies to become hard. Bake until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Conclusion
Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a timeless favorite that bring joy to any occasion. With their rich, spiced flavor and soft texture, they’re a delightful treat that’s fun to bake and even more enjoyable to share. Whether you’re indulging during the holidays or simply craving a comforting cookie, these gingerbread treats are a must-try.
📖 Recipe:
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Soft Gingerbread Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a holiday classic with a perfectly spiced, chewy texture. These comforting treats are easy to make, versatile for decorating, and perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family baking sessions.
Ingredients
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- Beat softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg, molasses, and vanilla.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until dough forms. Divide, wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
- Shape the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into shapes.
- Roll in Sugar
- Coat cookies in granulated sugar and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake
- Bake 8-10 minutes. Cool before decorating if desired.
Notes
Chilling the dough helps maintain cookie shapes during baking.
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze undecorated cookies for three months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 24 cookies
