Bake the Season Bright: The Best Gingerbread Cookie Recipes for Your Holiday Table

Quick Overview Section

• Recipe Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5 from 300 readers)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-27 minutes
• Servings: Serves 24 cookies
• Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per cookie

Introduction

Gingerbread cookies have a special place on my holiday table, evoking cherished memories of Baking with family during the chilly winter months. Their warm, spiced aroma fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering. Originating in Medieval Europe, these cookies have become a festive staple in many cultures, often adorned with royal icing and candies. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional flavor or a modern twist, this collection of gingerbread cookie recipes will make your holiday season a little brighter.

Keywords: gingerbread, holiday Baking, spiced cookies, easy recipes

Ingredients List

• All-purpose Flour: 3 cups
• Ground ginger: 1 tablespoon
• Ground cinnamon: 1 tablespoon
• Ground cloves: 1/2 teaspoon
• Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (softened)
• Brown sugar: 1 cup (packed)
• Molasses: 1/2 cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Substitutions:

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose Flour with a gluten-free Flour blend.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Substitute molasses with maple syrup for a lighter taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together Flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, Baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until well combined.
5. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes.
8. Place cookies on a lined Baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Tips and Tricks Section

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough; it helps maintain the shape of your cookies while Baking.
• Decorate Wisely: Use royal icing for a festive touch, or sprinkle with sugar before Baking for added sparkle.
• Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Macronutrients:
  • Protein: 1.5 g
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Micronutrients:
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg

Recipe Notes

• Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra flavor boost.
• This recipe can easily be doubled for large gatherings or holiday parties.

FAQ

1. How should I store leftover gingerbread cookies?
   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

2. Can I freeze gingerbread cookies?
   Yes, they freeze well! Place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. How do I make these cookies softer?
   Add an extra tablespoon of molasses to the dough to make the cookies more chewy.

4. Can I use different spices?
   Absolutely! Experiment with nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor.

5. What’s the best way to decorate gingerbread cookies?
   Use royal icing for details, but remember to allow your cookies to cool completely before decorating.

Please give us your feedback! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this gingerbread cookie recipe. Leave a comment below or rate the recipe! Don’t forget to share your gingerbread creations on social media using #BakeTheSeasonBright.

Recipe Card: Gingerbread Cookies

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Ingredients:

• All-purpose Flour: 3 cups
• Ground ginger: 1 tablespoon
• Ground cinnamon: 1 tablespoon
• Ground cloves: 1/2 teaspoon
• Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (softened)
• Brown sugar: 1 cup (packed)
• Molasses: 1/2 cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, Baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
4. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla; mix well.
5. Fold in dry ingredients to form a dough.
6. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.
7. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness; cut into shapes.
8. Place on a lined Baking sheet; bake 10-12 mins. Cool before decorating.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 1.5 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 50 mg

Tips and Variations: Try adding a touch of citrus zest for an extra zing!
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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