BEST Gingerbread Cookies

These are the BEST gingerbread cookies you will ever make! They are thick, soft, and chewy, maintaining their delightful texture for days. With rich flavors of molasses and spices, they are perfect for any holiday occasion or cozy gathering. This recipe is sure to become your go-to when you want to fill your home with that warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of molasses and spices creates a rich taste that brings comfort and joy.
• Perfect Texture: These cookies are thick and chewy, ensuring they stay deliciously soft longer than regular cookies.
• Versatile Designs: Ideal for decorating during festive times. You can create various shapes and styles to match any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can confidently whip up these treats.
• Great for Sharing: Bake a batch and share them with friends and family; they are sure to impress everyone!

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the perfect gingerbread cookies, gather the right tools before starting. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort in creaming butter with sugar, ensuring a smooth mixture.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.

Ingredients

These are the BEST gingerbread cookies because they’re thick, soft, and chewy while lasting that way for days. The flavor is 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 Cookie 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 the Icing

• 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 Dough

Start by creaming the butter and shortening together in a mixing bowl. Add dark brown sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Then mix in vanilla extract and egg until thoroughly combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, baking soda, cream of tartar, and ground clove. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes.

Step 5: Bake

Place cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 8 minutes or until edges just start to darken. Allow them to cool completely before icing.

Step 6: Decorate

Mix powdered sugar with water and corn syrup until smooth for icing. Use gel food coloring if desired. Decorate cooled cookies as you prefer!

Now enjoy your delicious BEST gingerbread cookies!

How to Serve BEST Gingerbread Cookies

Serving gingerbread cookies is a delightful experience, especially during the holiday season. These cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee – Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Tea – Enjoy these cookies with a soothing cup of herbal tea to enhance their spicy flavors.
• Hot Chocolate – Dip your gingerbread cookies into hot chocolate for an extra indulgent dessert experience.

As Decorative Treats

• Cookie Decorating – Use royal icing to decorate gingerbread men or houses, making them fun festive crafts.
• Gift Packaging – Wrap cookies in festive packaging as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Dessert Table – Include gingerbread cookies on your holiday dessert table alongside other treats for variety.
• Cookie Exchange – Bring these cookies to cookie swaps; their unique flavor will surely impress fellow bakers.

How to Perfect BEST Gingerbread Cookies

Perfecting your gingerbread cookies can elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before rolling. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
• Use Fresh Spices – Ensure your ground spices are fresh for maximum flavor impact in your cookies.
• Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon and level flour to avoid dense cookies; this ensures the right texture.
• Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on them while baking. They should look soft but set when you take them out of the oven.
• Store Properly – Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness and chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Gingerbread Cookies

While gingerbread cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of gingerbread.
2. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses complements the sweetness of the cookies, offering a savory balance.
3. Spiced Nut Mix – Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft gingerbread.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve warm gingerbread cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
5. Pumpkin Pie Yogurt Parfait – Layer pumpkin yogurt with granola and spices for a seasonal twist.
6. Caramel Sauce Dip – A sweet caramel dip enhances the flavor profile of the gingerbread and adds decadence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gingerbread cookies can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointment. Here are some you should avoid:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using the wrong amount of ingredients can ruin your cookies. Always measure carefully using the right tools for dry and liquid ingredients.

• Neglecting Temperature: Ingredients like butter and eggs should be at room temperature for better mixing. Take them out ahead of time to ensure optimal texture.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Chilling the dough is essential for shaping and preventing spreading. Allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.

• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on sheets can lead to sticking or uneven baking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing BEST Gingerbread Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• For best quality, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

Reheating BEST Gingerbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat cookies individually for about 10-15 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and warm for a couple of minutes, covered, to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the BEST gingerbread cookies.

How do I make my gingerbread cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, reduce baking time slightly and add a bit more molasses or an extra tablespoon of shortening.

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for best results.

What if I don’t have molasses?

You can substitute with a combination of honey and brown sugar or use dark corn syrup as an alternative.

Can I decorate these BEST Gingerbread Cookies?

Absolutely! Use royal icing or fondant to create fun decorations. You can also use gel food coloring for vibrant designs.

How do I store leftover icing?

Store leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Stir well before using again.

Final Thoughts

These BEST gingerbread cookies are not only thick, soft, and chewy but also incredibly flavorful with rich spices. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or decorations. Give it a try this holiday season!