BEST Gingerbread Cookies

These are the BEST gingerbread cookies because they’re thick, soft, and chewy, lasting that way for days. With a rich flavor from molasses and spices, these cookies capture the cozy holiday spirit perfectly. Ideal for decorating or simply enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, this recipe will become your favorite for festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This gingerbread cookie recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: Packed with molasses and spices, each bite offers a delightful burst of warmth and sweetness that is perfect for the holidays.
• Versatile Decorating Options: Whether you want to create intricate designs or keep it simple, these cookies lend themselves well to various decoration styles.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Unlike many gingerbread recipes that tend to be hard, these cookies remain soft and chewy even after a few days.
• Great for Gifting: These cookies make wonderful gifts during the holiday season when beautifully decorated or packaged.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking these delicious gingerbread cookies, gather your tools! Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even dough.
• Cookie cutters: Allow you to create fun shapes for your gingerbread cookies, adding to their festive appeal.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy when baking your cookies on a baking sheet.

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Ingredients

These are the BEST gingerbread cookies because they’re thick, soft and chewy and last that way for days. The flavor is also incredibly rich, using tons of molasses and spices to bring in that cozy holiday feel. It will definitely be your new go-to recipe!

For the Dough

• 1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, room temp
• 6 tbsp vegetable shortening
• 3/4 cup (150g) dark brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup (250g) unsulphured molasses
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/4 tsp ground clove
• 3 1/2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

For Decorating

• 1 1/2 cups (165g) powdered sugar
• 6-8 tsp water
• 1 tsp corn syrup
• Gel food coloring (optional)

How to Make BEST Gingerbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter and vegetable shortening until smooth.
2. Add in dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and molasses. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together ground ginger, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, baking soda, cream of tartar, ground clove, and all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture while mixing until a dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This helps in rolling out the dough easily.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

On a floured surface:
1. Roll out chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place cut-out cookies onto prepared baking sheets:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 8 minutes or until edges are firm but centers are still soft.
2. Cool on wire racks before decorating.

Step 8: Decorate

In a small bowl:
1. Mix powdered sugar with water and corn syrup to create icing.
2. Use gel food coloring if desired.
3. Decorate cooled cookies with icing as per your creativity!

How to Serve BEST Gingerbread Cookies

These BEST gingerbread cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. They can be served in a variety of ways to enhance your festive spirit.

With Hot Beverages

• Hot Chocolate: Pair these cookies with a warm mug of rich hot chocolate for a delightful treat.
• Spiced Tea: Enjoy them alongside a cup of spiced tea, which complements the warm flavors of the cookies.

As Holiday Gifts

• Gift Boxes: Pack several cookies in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and family.
• Cookie Jars: Fill mason jars with cookies and tie a ribbon around the top for a charming present.

On Dessert Platters

• Dessert Buffet: Include them on a dessert table during holiday parties for guests to enjoy.
• Cookie Decorating Station: Set up a station where guests can decorate their own cookies with icing and sprinkles.

How to Perfect BEST Gingerbread Cookies

To make sure your BEST gingerbread cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This helps maintain their shape while baking.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance flavor. Check expiration dates on your spices to ensure they’re potent.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups without packing it down. This prevents dry cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Bake until edges are just firm. Overbaking can lead to hard cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Gingerbread Cookies

Serving side dishes alongside your BEST gingerbread cookies can create a more festive atmosphere. Consider these options that pair well with the sweet and spicy flavors of gingerbread.

1. Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy frosting that complements the sweetness of gingerbread beautifully.
2. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote adds a fruity contrast and freshness to each bite.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream enhances the richness of the cookies.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious texture contrast.
5. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookie.
6. Nutmeg Latte: An aromatic nutmeg latte pairs well, enhancing the cozy flavors of gingerbread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread cookies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your results are perfect.

• Skipping the Chilling Time: If you don’t chill the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Refrigerate for at least an hour for thicker cookies.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Overbaking can make them hard. Aim for a soft center and remove them when slightly underdone.
• Ignoring Spice Measurements: Gingerbread’s flavor comes from spices. Make sure to measure your spices carefully for that rich taste.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking soda or spices won’t give the desired rise or flavor. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing BEST Gingerbread Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating BEST Gingerbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat with a lid for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the BEST gingerbread cookies.

How do I make the BEST Gingerbread Cookies soft?

For softer cookies, ensure you don’t overbake them and keep them stored in an airtight container once cooled.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version while still enjoying the BEST gingerbread cookies.

How long will the BEST Gingerbread Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will remain fresh for up to one week at room temperature.

Can I decorate my BEST Gingerbread Cookies?

Absolutely! Use royal icing or fondant to create fun decorations. Feel free to get creative with holiday themes!

Are there any vegan options for the BEST Gingerbread Cookies?

Yes, substitute butter with coconut oil or a vegan shortening, and use flax eggs as an egg replacement to enjoy delicious vegan gingerbread cookies.

Final Thoughts

These BEST gingerbread cookies are not only thick, soft, and chewy; they also provide rich flavors that evoke cozy holiday feelings. With simple adjustments, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. So why not gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try? You won’t be disappointed!