Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies wafting through the house during the holiday season. These delightful treats are a cherished tradition, bringing together family and friends in sweet celebration. With their rich, complex flavors and delightful crunch, these gingerbread cookies will become a favorite in your home as they have in so many others.
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
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, cloves, and salt until everything is evenly combined. Set this fragrant mix aside; it’s about to become the backbone of your cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes and will help create a deliciously tender texture.
- Add the molasses, egg, and pure vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, beating until all these wonderful ingredients are well blended.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want our cookies to stay tender!
- Divide the dough in half, shape each portion into a disc, and wrap them well in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation is half the fun!
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thick. The dough should be smooth and easy to work with, releasing the most wonderful scent as you roll.
- Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes from the rolled dough. Place these charming cutouts on a lined baking sheet, giving them a little space to spread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the tops look just set. The kitchen will smell divine at this point!
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, where they will firm up beautifully.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to get creative with your decorations! Once the cookies have cooled, you can decorate them with royal icing, sprinkles, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra festive touch. These gingerbread cookies also make lovely gifts when presented in a decorative tin or box.
Cooking Techniques
When making gingerbread cookies, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature—this will aid in achieving a perfectly creamy texture when creaming with the sugars. Chilling the dough is crucial; it not only enhances the flavors but also makes the dough easier to roll out and cut. Lastly, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary.
FAQ
Can I freeze the gingerbread cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the wrapped dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling out and baking.
What’s the best way to store gingerbread cookies?
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long!
Conclusion
These gingerbread cookies are more than just a treat; they are a festive experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With their depth of flavor and delightful texture, you’ll find yourself reaching for one (or two!) time and time again. Embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy baking a batch—or two—of these scrumptious holiday favorites!