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gingerbread cookies

Gingerbread Cookies Easy Recipe for the Holidays


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  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 24-36 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These classic gingerbread cookies are a festive treat, perfect for the holidays. They’re spiced to perfection, easy to decorate, and always a crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup molasses
  • Royal icing for decorating (recipe below)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg, then molasses.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
  9. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets.
  10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are set.
  11. Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Decorate with royal icing.

Notes

  • For a spicier cookie, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  • Royal Icing Recipe: 1 lb powdered sugar, 3-4 tablespoons meringue powder, 1/2 cup water, mix until desired consistency.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
  • Category: Cookies
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g