There's nothing quite like the smell of gingerbread cookies wafting through the house during the holidays. This Best Gingerbread Cookie Recipe is a family favorite, and it reminds me of when my son, Jake, and I would bake together every Christmas. We'd laugh, make a mess, and enjoy the delicious results. Whether you're looking for a classic treat or a vegan option, this recipe has you covered.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s easy to make and perfect for family baking.
- You can customize the spices to fit your taste.
- The cookies are great for decorating with icing.
Pure Comfort
These gingerbread cookies are pure comfort. They have a warm, spicy flavor that just feels like home. Plus, the joy of decorating them brings everyone together, making it a fun family activity.
What You Need
- 3 cups 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g) – Sifted for best results.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise.
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp ground ginger – Adjust to taste.
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – Adds warmth.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp ground cloves – For that classic gingerbread flavor.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 g) – Can substitute with vegan butter.
- 1 cup 1 cup brown sugar, packed (220 g) – Use coconut sugar for a vegan option.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup molasses (120 ml) – Gives the cookies their rich flavor.
- 1 1 large egg – Can substitute with 1/4 cup applesauce for a vegan option.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
Time to Cook
Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Steps to Make It
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and become perfectly golden brown.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. The aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen, making it feel cozy.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. You want it to look pale and airy.
- Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. It should be thick and slightly sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes rolling easier. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s firm to the touch.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your favorite shapes. They should be firm enough to hold their shape.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. They’ll smell amazing!
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
- Once cooled, decorate with icing for gingerbread cookies if desired. Get creative and have fun with it!
Make It Perfect
- For a softer cookie, bake for a shorter time.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour while rolling.
- Use a variety of cookie cutters for fun shapes.
Mix It Up
- Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Use different spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor.
Perfect Partners
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or hot cocoa.
- Serve alongside a festive cheese platter for a fun holiday treat.
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FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze gingerbread cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a container for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of molasses?
You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but the flavor will be different.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Conclusion
This Best Gingerbread Cookie Recipe is sure to become a holiday tradition in your home. With the option for vegan gingerbread cookies, everyone can join in on the fun. So gather your loved ones, get baking, and enjoy the sweet aroma of gingerbread filling your kitchen!
Best Gingerbread Cookie Recipe with Vegan Option
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut shapes with cookie cutters.
- Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Decorate with icing if desired.