The aroma of warm spices filled the kitchen, a symphony of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves dancing in the air. Sunlight streamed through the window, casting a golden glow on the counter where flour-dusted hands meticulously shaped figures. This wasn’t just any baking session; it was a tradition, a ritual that brought the family together year after year to create edible works of art – gingerbread cookies.
Gingerbread Cookie Recipe: Bake Delicious Holiday Cheer
Gingerbread cookies are more than just a tasty treat; they’re a delectable symbol of the holiday season. Their origins can be traced back to medieval Europe, where gingerbread was used to make intricate sculptures to celebrate religious festivals. Today, gingerbread cookie decorating is a cherished activity enjoyed by people of all ages, bringing families and friends together to create festive masterpieces.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this gingerbread cookie recipe is sure to become your new holiday favorite. It’s simple to follow, uses pantry staples, and yields perfectly delicious cookies that are sturdy enough to decorate yet melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Cookies:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsulphured molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Royal Icing (Optional):
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 6 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prep Work: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Set aside. In a separate bowl using an electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Sweeten the Deal: Add the molasses and beat until combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract on high speed for 2 minutes.
- Bringing it Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don't overmix! The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Chilling Time: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This step helps the dough firm up and prevents spreading during baking.
- Roll it Out: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about ¼ inch.
- Cookie Cutters: Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes. Gingerbread people, Christmas trees, and stars are classic choices, but feel free to get creative!
- Bake it Up: Carefully transfer the cookie cutouts to the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between them for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before decorating. This will take about 15 minutes.
- Royal Icing Fun (Optional): If you're decorating your cookies, prepare the royal icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth and stiff. You can adjust the consistency by adding more water a teaspoon at a time if needed.
- Decorating Time: Transfer the royal icing to a piping bag fitted with a small tip. Unleash your creativity and decorate your cookies with intricate designs, flood icing, or sprinkles. Let the icing dry completely before storing.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, use light brown sugar. For a crispier texture, use dark brown sugar.
- The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- If the dough is too sticky to roll out, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes manageable.
- Don't overbake the cookies, or they will become hard and dry.
- Get the kids involved in the decorating process! It's a fun and festive activity for the whole family.
Conclusion
Gingerbread cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holidays. With this easy-to-follow recipe and a little creativity, you can create delicious and festive treats that will bring joy to your family and friends. So grab your rolling pin, gather your loved ones, and bake up a batch of delicious memories!
