Soft Gingerbread Cookies for Holiday Baking

Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a holiday classic that always bring a smile. I remember baking these with my daughter, Lily, and how we ended up with flour on our faces and giggles all around. These cookies are perfect for Christmas cooking and will fill your home with the warm aroma of spices.

Why You’ll Love It

• They’re soft and chewy, just like a hug in cookie form.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
• Easy to make, even with little helpers in the kitchen.

Pure Comfort

There’s something so comforting about biting into a soft gingerbread cookie. The blend of spices and the sweetness will remind you of holiday cheer.

What You Need

• 3 cups 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g) – Sifted for a lighter texture.
• 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon ground ginger – For that warm, spicy flavor.
• 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Adds sweetness and warmth.
• 1 tsp 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 g) – Can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• 1 cup 1 cup brown sugar, packed (220 g) – For rich sweetness.
• 1 1 large egg – Brings everything together.
• 1/2 cup 1/2 cup molasses (120 ml) – For that deep flavor.
• 1 tsp 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely aroma.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. The mixture should smell fragrant and inviting.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 minutes, and you’ll see the mixture turn a lovely light brown.
4. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your dough to be soft and slightly sticky.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between them, as they will spread while baking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. They should look set and slightly cracked on top, but still soft in the center.
8. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them firm up a bit without getting too hard.
9. Enjoy these Soft Gingerbread Cookies warm or store them in an airtight container for later. They taste even better the next day!

Make It Perfect

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice.
• If you want a little crunch, roll the dough balls in sugar before baking.
• These cookies can be decorated with icing for a festive touch.

Mix It Up

• Add chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Try using honey instead of molasses for a lighter flavor.

Perfect Partners

• Serve with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea.
• Pair with cream cheese frosting for a delightful treat.

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FAQs

Conclusion

These Soft Gingerbread Cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. With their delightful spices and chewy texture, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself. Happy baking!

Soft Gingerbread Cookies for Holiday Baking

Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a holiday classic with a soft, chewy texture and warm spices. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights, these cookies fill your home with a comforting, sweet aroma reminiscent of holiday cheer.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

Main

• 3 cups all-purpose flour Sifted for a lighter texture
• 1 tbsp ground ginger For warm, spicy flavor
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon Adds sweetness and warmth
• 1 tsp baking soda Helps the cookies rise
• 0.5 tsp salt Balances the sweetness
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened Can substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free option
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed For rich sweetness
• 1 large egg Brings everything together
• 0.5 cup molasses For that deep flavor
• 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds a lovely aroma

Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
2. Whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined without overmixing.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for about 10 minutes until set and slightly cracked on top but still soft in the center.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.