These soft gingerbread cookies are a holiday favorite, bringing warmth and cheer to any gathering. With their rich spices and sweet icing, they are perfect for decorating or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Follow this easy recipe to create cookies that are not only soft but also bursting with flavor and nostalgia.
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes for baking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 120 calories, 4g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 10g sugar. This is based on a standard serving size of one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are firm but the centers are soft.
- Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to make these cookies gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan option, use coconut oil instead of butter and flaxseed meal as an egg substitute.
Serving and Pairings
These soft gingerbread cookies are perfect served with a hot cup of cocoa or tea. They can also be paired with cream cheese frosting for a delicious twist or enjoyed plain with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until soft.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough, as it can make the cookies tough.
- Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
- Chill the dough to prevent spreading during baking.
- Use a timer to avoid overbaking.
- Make sure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a dash of nutmeg or allspice.
- Use a variety of cookie cutters for fun shapes.
- Decorate with royal icing for a festive touch.
- Experiment with different toppings like chocolate chips.
FAQs
How can I make my gingerbread cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I use honey instead of molasses?
Yes, you can substitute honey for molasses, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Molasses gives the cookies a distinct richness that honey may not replicate.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. If you want them to last longer, freeze them.
Can I decorate gingerbread cookies?
Absolutely! Gingerbread cookies are perfect for decorating. Use royal icing, fondant, or simple powdered sugar glaze to add festive designs.
How long do baked gingerbread cookies last?
Baked gingerbread cookies can last up to a week at room temperature in an airtight container. They can be frozen for longer storage, up to three months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these soft gingerbread cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their warm spices and soft texture, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy baking and sharing these festive cookies throughout the holiday season!
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are firm but the centers are soft.
- Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing if desired.
Nutrition
