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Gingerbread Cookie Recipe: Easy Homemade Holiday Treats for Festive Baking

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These cozy gingerbread cookies are packed with warm spices and molasses, delivering classic holiday flavor and chewy texture. Perfect for festive baking, decorating, and sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)
  • Royal icing or powdered sugar icing (for decorating)
  • Candy buttons, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips (for decorating)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  2. In another bowl, beat butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Mix in molasses, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest (if using) until fully incorporated.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Switch to a spatula if dough becomes thick. Adjust with flour or milk if needed.
  5. Shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours).
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Lightly flour work surface and rolling pin. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
  8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm and centers slightly soft.
  9. Cool cookies on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Once cool, decorate with royal icing and candy decorations. Let icing set before stacking or storing.

Notes

Chilling the dough is essential for shape and flavor. Use fresh spices for best taste. Roll dough between parchment for easy handling. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, substitute flour and butter as needed. Cookies taste even better after a day or two as flavors deepen.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread cookies, holiday baking, Christmas cookies, festive treats, molasses cookies, easy gingerbread, decorated cookies

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