Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of fresh gingerbread wafting through your kitchen, especially during the holiday season. These delightful cookies are not just a treat; they are a cherished tradition that brings warmth and joy to gatherings with loved ones. With a perfect blend of spices and a rich sweetness, this gingerbread recipe is bound to become a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on a baking journey that will fill your home with festive cheer!
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, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, ground cloves, and salt. This spice mix will create a wonderful fragrance, so set it aside for now.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the unsulfured molasses, egg, and pure vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well until everything is nicely combined. The mixture will be rich and darkly colored.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overdo it; we want the cookies to be tender!
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you’d like to be extra prepared.
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation will have your kitchen buzzing!
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes. The holiday fun begins!
- Place the cutouts on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are firm. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the captivating scent of gingerbread.
- Once done, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They’ll be perfect for decorating or enjoying as they are!
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of black pepper to the dry ingredients. If you want to make these cookies even more festive, feel free to decorate them with icing or sprinkles after they have cooled!
Cooking Techniques
You can easily switch up the flavors in these cookies by experimenting with different spices such as cardamom or nutmeg. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s especially important to chill the dough thoroughly; this helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
FAQ
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the wrapped discs of dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before rolling out and baking.
How should I store the cookies?
Store your gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also make delicious holiday gifts!
Conclusion
With their warm spices and delightful sweetness, these gingerbread cookies are bound to create lasting memories around the holiday table. Whether you’re enjoying them on a chilly afternoon with a cup of hot cocoa or sharing them with friends and family, each bite is a reminder of the joys of home baking. So gather your loved ones, get your apron on, and unleash the magic of gingerbread in your kitchen!