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Perfect Gingerbread Cookies Recipe for Easy Holiday Baking

gingerbread cookies - featured image

These gingerbread cookies are soft yet sturdy, perfect for decorating and gifting during the holiday season. With a delightful blend of spices and sweetness, they are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional decorations: royal icing, sprinkles, or candies

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Add the molasses and egg, beating until fully combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky but firm.
  5. Divide the dough into two portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  8. Cut shapes using cookie cutters and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. The cookies should be firm but not browned.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
  11. Decorate cooled cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, or candies as desired.

Notes

Chill the dough to prevent spreading and ensure clean edges. Adjust the spice blend to suit your taste. Test bake one cookie before baking the entire batch.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread cookies, holiday baking, Christmas cookies, easy gingerbread recipe, festive cookies