Description
These soft gingerbread cookies are the perfect holiday treat, featuring the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses in every chewy bite. Whether you’re decorating them for a festive event or enjoying them plain, they’re an easy and delicious way to add holiday cheer to your kitchen. With a simple recipe and customizable variations, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then coat each ball in granulated sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or fingers to form a rounded shape.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are firm and tops are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Decorate with royal icing or a simple glaze for a festive finish.
Notes
Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months and bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 150 kcal
