Classic Gingerbread Cookies: A Holiday Favorite

Holiday Fun: Classic Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

Nothing says “holiday season” quite like the smell of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. With their warm blend of spices—ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—these cookies instantly bring that cozy Christmas feeling into your home.

What makes gingerbread cookies so much fun is their versatility. You can cut them into classic gingerbread men, snowflakes, trees, or even reindeer with your favorite cookie cutters. Then, decorate them with icing, candies, or sprinkles to add your own festive touch. They’re as much an activity as they are a treat, making them perfect for family baking nights or holiday parties.

Whether you prefer them soft and chewy or crisp and snappy, gingerbread cookies are a timeless tradition that never fails to bring smiles. Bake a batch this season, and let the aroma of gingerbread fill your kitchen with holiday cheer.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 1/2 cup molasses

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp ground ginger

• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

• Optional: 1–2 tbsp milk if dough feels too dry

🎄 Classic Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

Instructions

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.

2. Chill: Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour (overnight gives even better flavor).

3. Roll & Cut: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.

4. Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until the edges start to firm up. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

5. Decorate: Once completely cooled, decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or small candies as desired.

Final Thoughts & Tips 💡

These classic gingerbread cookies are a timeless holiday treat, perfect for baking with family or gifting to friends. The warm spices and sweet molasses create a cozy, festive flavor that everyone will love. Plus, decorating them adds a fun and creative touch that makes the holidays even more special.

Holiday Baking Must-Haves from Amazon

Ready to get baking? Grab your cookie cutters, preheat the oven, and make a batch of these delicious gingerbread cookies today! Don’t forget to share your creations and spread the holiday cheer.

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