Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also packed with warm spices that make them perfect for Christmas gatherings or cozy nights in. Their rich flavor and comforting aroma will fill your kitchen and warm your heart, making them a staple for any festive occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone loves.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies on their own or decorate them for a festive touch.
- Perfect for Gifting: Soft Gingerbread Cookies make great gifts during the holiday season, wrapped in pretty packaging.
- Batch-Friendly: With 50 servings, this recipe is ideal for parties and celebrations.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Soft Gingerbread Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Baking sheets: Sturdy baking sheets distribute heat evenly, ensuring perfectly baked cookies every time.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
This is an easy recipe for chewy and soft spiced cookies from scratch – a classic American gingerbread for Christmas!
For the Dough
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup molasses (NOT blackstrap)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar OR white wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 5 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How to Make Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and light brown sugar. Use a whisk to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, molasses, apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar), and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm but centers are soft. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Soft Gingerbread Cookies fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container!
How to Serve Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Soft Gingerbread Cookies are versatile treats perfect for the holiday season. You can enjoy them in various ways that enhance their spiced flavor and chewy texture.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee – Pair your cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a delightful morning treat.
- Hot Chocolate – Enjoy these cookies with rich hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Spiced Tea – A warm spiced tea complements the ginger and cinnamon in the cookies beautifully.
Decorated for the Holidays
- Royal Icing – Use royal icing to create festive designs, making them visually appealing for holiday gatherings.
- Sprinkles – Add colorful sprinkles on top to bring extra cheer to your cookie platter.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an indulgent touch.
As Gifts
- Gift Boxes – Package these cookies in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
- Cookie Jars – Fill jars with layers of cookies and give them as charming homemade presents.
How to Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies
To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Soft Gingerbread Cookies, follow these handy tips.
- Chill the Dough – Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Use Fresh Spices – Always opt for fresh ground spices; they enhance the flavor significantly.
- Measure Flour Accurately – Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup, then level it off. This prevents dry cookies.
- Don’t Overbake – Remove them from the oven when they are soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Store Properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Soft Gingerbread Cookies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent pairings:
- Cream Cheese Frosting – A rich and tangy frosting that pairs well with gingerbread’s spices.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Pecan Pie Bars – These bars add a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with soft cookies.
- Cheese Platter – Include some sharp cheese; it creates a savory-sweet pairing that’s delightful.
- Spiced Nuts – Crunchy spiced nuts enhance the ginger flavor and provide a satisfying texture contrast.
- Mulled Wine – The warm spices in mulled wine echo those in gingerbread, creating a harmonious combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Soft Gingerbread Cookies can be delightful, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Using blackstrap molasses: This variety is too bitter for cookies. Stick with regular molasses for a sweeter flavor.
- Skipping the vinegar: Vinegar helps the cookies rise and keeps them soft. Don’t omit it for better texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined to maintain softness.
- Not chilling the dough: Chilling helps flavors meld and prevents spreading. Always chill your dough before baking.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect texture. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Soft Gingerbread Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- They will last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Soft Gingerbread Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping gently for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding our delicious Soft Gingerbread Cookies.
Can I make Soft Gingerbread Cookies without molasses?
You can substitute honey or maple syrup, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
What makes Soft Gingerbread Cookies soft?
The combination of butter, sugar, and vinegar helps create a chewy, soft texture that melts in your mouth.
How do I customize my Soft Gingerbread Cookies?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour; however, it may result in denser cookies. Adjust liquid as needed.
Final Thoughts
These Soft Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy evening at home. Their delightful spices and chewiness make them irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Try this recipe, and enjoy the warmth and love they bring!
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 50 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth and festive spirit of Soft Gingerbread Cookies, a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, making them a quintessential Christmas snack. The rich aroma that fills your kitchen while baking is sure to create cherished memories with family and friends. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or decorated for a festive touch, these cookies bring joy to every occasion. They’re not only delicious but also easy to make, making them an ideal baking project for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup molasses (NOT blackstrap)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar OR white wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg, molasses, vinegar, and vanilla; mix until combined.
- In another bowl, sift the flour with baking soda, salt, and spices; gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto prepared sheets with sufficient space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain soft. Cool on wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
