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Gingerbread Cookies

A timeless holiday treat that is warmly spiced, slightly chewy, and fun to decorate, these gingerbread cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges and festive occasions.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Sifted
  • ¾ cup brown sugar (packed) Light or dark brown sugar can be used
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) Room temperature butter is recommended
  • ½ cup molasses Light or dark molasses can be used
  • 1 large egg At room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Leavening agent
  • ½ teaspoon salt Regular table salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger For spiciness
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Adds warmth
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves Adds depth of flavor
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg For aromatic flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cream the butter and brown sugar together until fluffy.
  2. Beat in the molasses and egg until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of ¼ inch on a floured surface.
  3. Cut the rolled dough into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
  4. Place cutouts on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges are firm.
  5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before decorating.

Notes

For a festive presentation, decorate the cookies with royal icing, sanding sugar, or sprinkles. They make great plated gifts when stacked with parchment paper in between layers and tied with a ribbon.