BEST Gingerbread Cookies

These are the BEST gingerbread cookies you will ever make! They’re thick, soft, and chewy, maintaining their delightful texture for days. With a rich flavor profile from generous amounts of molasses and warm spices, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also look festive and inviting, making them a fantastic treat for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Thick and Chewy: These cookies have the perfect texture that stays soft even after a few days.
• Rich Flavor: Thanks to abundant molasses and spices, each bite is filled with cozy warmth.
• Versatile Decoration: They’re great for decorating with icing or enjoying plain.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal steps, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 20 servings, they’re ideal for gifting or sharing at parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into the delicious world of baking gingerbread cookies, gather your tools. The right equipment can make all the difference in your cookie-making experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Electric mixer: It saves time and ensures that your butter and sugar are perfectly creamed.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out cookie dough evenly for consistent thickness.

Ingredients

These are the BEST gingerbread cookies because they’re thick, soft and chewy and last that way for days. The flavor is also incredibly rich, using tons of molasses and spices to bring in that cozy holiday feel. It will definitely be your new go-to recipe!

For the Dough

• 1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, room temp
• 6 tbsp vegetable shortening
• 3/4 cup (150g) dark brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup (250g) unsulphured molasses (I use Grandma’s)
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/4 tsp ground clove
• 3 1/2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

For the Icing

• 1 1/2 cups (165g) powdered sugar
• 6-8 tsp water
• 1 tsp corn syrup
• Gel food coloring (optional)

How to Make BEST Gingerbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by creaming together the room temperature butter and vegetable shortening in a mixing bowl. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Sugar & Eggs

Add dark brown sugar to the mixture along with vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Then, add in the egg one at a time until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate Molasses & Spices

Pour in the unsulphured molasses followed by ground ginger, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, cream of tartar, and ground clove. Stir until everything is well blended.

Step 4: Combine Flour

Gradually add all-purpose flour to the mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Chill Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step is crucial for easier rolling later on.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Once chilled, take out the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place cutouts on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for about 8 minutes or until edges are firm but not browned.

Step 9: Cool & Decorate

Let cookies cool on a wire rack before decorating with icing or enjoying them plain!

Now you’re ready to impress everyone with these BEST gingerbread cookies! Enjoy sharing them during this festive season!

How to Serve BEST Gingerbread Cookies

These gingerbread cookies are perfect for various occasions and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Hot Cocoa: Pair these cookies with a rich cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Spiced Tea: Enjoy with spiced chai or herbal tea to complement the warm flavors of ginger and cinnamon.

Decorated for Holidays

• Festive Icing: Use colored icing to decorate your cookies, making them visually appealing for holiday celebrations.
• Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the icing for an extra fun touch.

As Part of a Cookie Platter

• Mixed Cookies: Include gingerbread cookies on a platter with other holiday treats like sugar cookies and peppermint bark.
• Gift Boxes: Package them beautifully in gift boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season.

How to Perfect BEST Gingerbread Cookies

To ensure your gingerbread cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh ground spices instead of old ones that may have lost their potency.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove cookies as soon as they look set but still soft.
• Store Properly: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies can be complemented by several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy frosting that pairs wonderfully with the spiced flavors of gingerbread.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of gingerbread and adds a healthy touch.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like Brie or cream cheese to contrast with the cookie’s spice.
4. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts provides a crunchy texture that complements soft cookies.
5. Yogurt Dip: Serve with a lightly sweetened yogurt dip for a creamy contrast.
6. Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream makes a decadent pairing with warm gingerbread cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread cookies can be fun, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Boldly skip the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Over-mixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Using old spices: Outdated spices can dull the flavor of your cookies. Always use fresh spices for the best taste and aroma.
• Neglecting to measure ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Skipping the cooling phase: Removing cookies from the oven and not allowing them to cool properly can affect their texture. Let them cool on a wire rack for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing BEST Gingerbread Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
• Layer with parchment paper to keep them separate when freezing.

Reheating BEST Gingerbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the BEST gingerbread cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be firm, while the centers may appear slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

What is the best way to decorate BEST Gingerbread Cookies?

Use royal icing or store-bought decorating icing. You can also add colorful sprinkles for extra flair!

How long do BEST Gingerbread Cookies last?

When stored properly, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Can I use different spices in BEST Gingerbread Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist on flavor.

Final Thoughts

These BEST gingerbread cookies are not only thick, soft, and chewy but also packed with rich flavors that capture the essence of the holiday season. They are perfect for sharing or decorating with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite spices or decorations!