Save to Pinterest This gingerbread combines warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves with molasses and butter to create a crisp, aromatic dough. After chilling, it rolls out smoothly for cutting festive shapes, perfect for intricate icing decorations or edible ornaments. Baking is quick at medium heat, setting edges firmly while retaining a delightful snap. Decorating options include royal icing and candies to add color and texture. Store in airtight containers for freshness.
Discovering this gingerbread recipe was like unwrapping a little holiday magic each year. The crisp texture and warm spices instantly bring back memories of decorating cookies with my family and filling the house with that cozy festive aroma.
I still remember the first time unexpected guests arrived right when my gingerbread was cooling—the smiles on their faces as they bit into those spiced delights turned the day around instantly.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: I always reach for a good quality brand to give the dough the right structure for rolling and cutting.
- Ground ginger: Fresh and aromatic, this is the heart of the gingerbread flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm depth that balances the sharper spices.
- Ground cloves: Used sparingly for a subtle kick without overpowering.
- Ground nutmeg: A sprinkle to round out the spice profile beautifully.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender bite.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Softened for easy mixing and rich flavor.
- Dark brown sugar: Packed tightly to add moisture and a deep caramel note.
- Molasses: The secret to that classic gingerbread color and robust flavor.
- Egg: Binds everything together for that perfect dough texture.
- Pure vanilla extract: A touch of sweetness that rounds out the spices.
- Royal icing: For decorating; white and smooth, it lets your designs pop.
- Assorted candies, sprinkles, or edible glitter (optional): For adding your personal festive touch.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Gather all your dry ingredients and whisk them together; the ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt will mingle to create that signature fragrance that fills the kitchen early on.
- Make the Dough Magic:
- Beat together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy while the sweet aroma of molasses and vanilla joins the party. Gradually add your dry mix in, stirring until the dough feels soft but not sticky.
- Chill for Success:
- Flatten the dough into two discs, wrap them tightly, and chill for at least 45 minutes — this rest will make rolling and cutting so much smoother, trust me.
- Roll and Cut:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes; remember if you're making ornaments, poking a hole near the top now will save trouble later.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place shapes on parchment-lined trays and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until edges set with a subtle golden tint. Let cookies cool completely on wire racks before decorating.
- Decorate and Enjoy:
- Use royal icing and add candies or glitter for that festive sparkle. Let icing set fully before handling or hanging your edible ornaments.
Save to Pinterest One holiday season, these gingerbread cookies became the centerpiece of our family's traditions, not just a treat but a shared joy that brought everyone together around the kitchen table.
Keeping It Fresh
Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container to maintain their crispness for up to two weeks — the perfect treat to bake ahead and enjoy throughout the season.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Pair these spicy cookies with a warm cup of cider or mulled wine to elevate your holiday gatherings to the next level of cozy comfort.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
I once needed a quick festive gift and these cookies were a lifesaver, wrapped in parchment and tied with ribbon they made everyone feel special.
- Remember to poke holes early if making ornaments to avoid cracking.
- Royal icing dries quickly but keep leftovers covered to prevent drying out.
- Store decorated cookies in a single layer to keep your hard work intact.
Save to Pinterest Thanks for sharing this little kitchen moment with me — I hope your gingerbread baking fills your home with as much warmth and happiness as it does mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
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Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and a hint of black pepper combine to create the warm, aromatic spice blend.
- → How thick should the dough be rolled?
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Roll dough to about 1/4 inch thickness to ensure crispness and proper baking of intricate shapes.
- → What is the best way to store baked pieces?
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Keep baked items in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain crispness.
- → Can the dough be chilled before baking?
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Yes, chilling dough discs for at least 45 minutes helps improve texture and ease of handling during shaping.
- → How is royal icing prepared for decorating?
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Whisk powdered sugar with egg white and a splash of lemon juice until smooth and pipeable for detailed decorating.
- → How to make edible hanging ornaments?
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Create a small hole with a straw before baking, then thread ribbon through once icing sets for festive hanging decorations.
