There’s nothing quite like the smell of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses filling your kitchen during the holiday season. Classic gingerbread cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a Christmas tradition that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re decorating them with icing, shaping them into fun holiday figures, or enjoying them fresh out of the oven, these cookies are sure to spread warmth and festive cheer.
Baking gingerbread cookies is a joyful way to celebrate Christmas. This recipe will guide you through every step, from making the perfect dough to baking cookies that are crisp on the edges and soft in the center.
Ingredients for Classic Gingerbread Cookies
To make about 24–30 medium-sized cookies, you’ll need the following:
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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3/4 tsp baking soda
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2 tsp ground ginger
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/2 tsp ground cloves
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1/2 tsp nutmeg
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1/2 tsp salt
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3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
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3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
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1 large egg
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1/2 cup molasses (unsulfured)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional for decorating:
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Royal icing or glaze
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Sprinkles, colored sugar, or small candies
Kitchen Tools Needed
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Mixing bowls
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Electric mixer or stand mixer
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Rolling pin
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Baking sheets
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Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
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Cookie cutters (holiday shapes like stars, trees, gingerbread men)
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Cooling rack
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Small spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and dark.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a thick dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 30–60 minutes for easier handling.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your favorite holiday shapes.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on size. Edges should be firm but centers slightly soft.
Step 7: Cool and Decorate
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or glaze as desired.
Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cookies
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Use fresh spices – Old or stale spices can dull the flavor of your cookies.
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Chill the dough – Rolling out chilled dough makes it easier to cut precise shapes.
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Avoid overbaking – Gingerbread cookies continue to firm up as they cool. Remove them from the oven when edges are just set.
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Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
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Fun variations – Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a dash of orange zest for a twist on the classic.
Why Gingerbread Cookies Are a Christmas Staple
Classic gingerbread cookies have been a part of holiday traditions for centuries. Their warm spices evoke memories of family gatherings, cozy kitchens, and the joy of Christmas celebrations. They’re versatile, fun to decorate, and perfect for gifting or serving at holiday parties. Making gingerbread cookies is more than baking—it’s a way to create lasting memories.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with hot cocoa or spiced cider for a cozy treat.
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Use cookies as decorations for a festive centerpiece.
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Create gingerbread houses for a creative family activity.
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Package in decorative tins as Christmas gifts for friends and coworkers.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx.)
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Calories: 120
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Carbohydrates: 20 g
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Sugars: 10 g
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Fat: 5 g
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Protein: 1 g
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Fiber: 1 g
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on cookie size and decorations.
Conclusion
Classic gingerbread cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a Christmas tradition that brings warmth, joy, and a festive spirit to any holiday celebration. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or as a gift, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite.
Celebrate the season with the irresistible aroma of spices, the sweet taste of molasses, and the joy of decorating each cookie. With this detailed guide, you’ll have perfectly baked gingerbread cookies ready to make your Christmas memorable.
