Best Gingerbread Cookie Recipe – Soft & Chewy
If you're looking for the best gingerbread cookie recipe, you're in the right place! These soft, chewy, and warmly spiced cookies are perfect for the holiday season. Whether you're making them for a Christmas gathering or simply craving a delicious homemade treat, this gingerbread cookie recipe will not disappoint.
Why You'll Love This Gingerbread Cookie Recipe
- Soft and chewy texture
- Perfectly spiced with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves
- Easy to roll out and cut into fun shapes
- Great for decorating with icing
- A classic holiday tradition that everyone loves
Ingredients for the Best Gingerbread Cookie Recipe
To make the best gingerbread cookie recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make This Gingerbread Cookie Recipe
Follow these easy steps to make the best gingerbread cookie recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors develop and makes rolling out the dough easier.
Step 3: Roll and Cut
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are slightly firm.
- Allow cookies to cool before decorating.
Step 5: Decorate
Use royal icing or melted chocolate to decorate your gingerbread cookie recipe creation!
Gingerbread Cookie Recipe Tips
- Chill the dough to prevent sticking.
- Use parchment paper to avoid burnt edges.
- Adjust baking time for softer or crunchier cookies.
Gingerbread Cookie Recipe Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Cookie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 2g |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do gingerbread cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze gingerbread cookie dough?
Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before rolling out.
Can I make this gingerbread cookie recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Final Thoughts
This gingerbread cookie recipe is a must-try for any holiday baker. Follow these steps, and you’ll have soft, chewy, and delicious cookies ready to share!