Introduction
When the air turns crisp and the holiday spirit fills the atmosphere, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies wafting through your home. These delightful treats are more than just a festive snack; they bring families together, spark joy, and create memories that last a lifetime. Tender, spicy, and warmly sweet, these gingerbread cookies are perfect for decorating, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. Let’s dive into this cherished recipe that will undoubtedly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: About 30 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by whisking together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, ground cloves, and salt in a medium bowl. This blend of spices is what gives your gingerbread its signature warm flavor.
- In a larger mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes and will help create a beautifully rich cookie.
- Next, add in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to your butter and sugar mixture. Mix until everything is beautifully combined and smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until you see no more flour. Be careful not to overmix; we want these cookies to remain tender!
- Once your dough is ready, divide it in half. Shape each portion into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This step is crucial for developing flavors and making the dough easier to handle.
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters of your choice to cut out festive shapes.
- Carefully place your cutouts on a lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges look firm and lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time allows the cookies to set up perfectly!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra spicy kick, feel free to increase the amount of ground ginger or cinnamon.
- If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough a bit longer before rolling it out.
- These gingerbread cookies are perfect for decorating with icing or festive sprinkles!
Cooking Techniques
Making gingerbread cookies involves a bit of technique, especially when it comes to mixing and chilling. Be sure to let the dough rest in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor. When rolling out dough, use a light dusting of flour on your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. And remember, precision is key when crafting those festive shapes!
FAQ
Can I freeze gingerbread cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped discs of dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before rolling out and baking.
How do I store the cookies once baked?
Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to keep them fresh and delicious.
Conclusion
With their tender texture and rich flavors, these gingerbread cookies are bound to become a festive staple in your holiday traditions. Whether you whip them up for a cozy night in, serve them at a holiday gathering, or share them with loved ones, each bite will remind you of the warm, spicy comfort of the season. Happy baking!