why make this recipe
Gingerbread cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and cheer, especially during the holiday season. The combination of spices like ginger and cinnamon fills the home with a cozy aroma. These cookies are fun to make, especially with family and friends, and decorating them adds a creative twist. You can create various shapes and designs, making it a joyful activity for everyone involved.
how to make Gingerbread Cookies
You will need some essential ingredients and follow simple steps to make delicious gingerbread cookies right at home.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup molasses
- Royal icing (for decoration)
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
- Cut out shapes with cookie cutters and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until slightly firm.
- Let the cookies cool and then decorate with royal icing.
how to serve Gingerbread Cookies
Serve gingerbread cookies as a sweet snack or dessert during gatherings. They also make great gifts when beautifully packaged. You can enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate for a comforting experience.
how to store Gingerbread Cookies
To keep your gingerbread cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for about a week. If you want to store them for longer, consider placing them in the fridge. For extended storage, you can freeze the cookies.
tips to make Gingerbread Cookies
- Ensure your butter is softened to mix well with sugar.
- Use fresh spices to enhance the flavor of your cookies.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to work with.
- When decorating, let the cookies cool completely to avoid melting the icing.
variation
You can add chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise or use different spices like nutmeg for added flavor. Gingerbread can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor and softer texture.
How can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to a week before rolling and baking.
Can I use store-bought icing?
Absolutely! Store-bought icing can save time, and it comes in various colors and flavors.
Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
- Cut out shapes with cookie cutters and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until slightly firm.
- Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with royal icing.
