Classic Holiday Gingerbread Cookies
These classic holiday gingerbread cookies are perfectly spiced, with a delightful chew and crisp edges. Ideal for festive gatherings and decorating, they bring the warmth and cheer of the season to your home.
Equipment
- medium bowl
- large bowl
- electric mixer
- plastic wrap
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- rolling pin
- cookie cutters
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsulphured molasses
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Icing (optional)
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar
- 3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg; set aside.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Beat in the egg, then molasses and vanilla extract, until combined, scraping down the bowl as needed.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing on low speed until just combined to form a thick dough.
Chilling and Baking
- Divide dough into two portions, flatten into disks, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk to 1/4 inch thickness and cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
- Transfer cut cookies to prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between them.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers are set.
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Icing and Storage
- Optionally, whisk confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a glaze; decorate cooled cookies as desired.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Notes
For best results, do not overmix the dough. Chilling the dough is crucial for firm cookies that hold their shape. Get creative with your cookie cutters for a fun and festive touch!