Easy Gingerbread Cookies: 7 Steps to Holiday Bliss

Name: Easy Gingerbread Cookies: 7 Steps to Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup molasses

novembre 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, the joy of baking during the holidays! There’s something truly magical about filling your kitchen with the warm, spicy scent of gingerbread cookies. Trust me, once you whip up a batch of these easy gingerbread cookies, you might just find yourself starting a new family tradition. I remember my first time making these with my kids; we ended up with flour everywhere and laughter echoing through the house. It was chaos, but the kind that fills your heart with joy. These cookies are not just delicious; they’re a canvas for creativity, perfect for decorating with icing or sharing with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making memories—one cookie at a time!

Ingredients for Easy Gingerbread Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to cookie perfection, and I promise these are all super easy to find! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: This is your base! Make sure to spoon and level the flour for the best results—no one wants a dense cookie!
1 teaspoon baking soda: This little guy helps the cookies rise and stay nice and chewy.
1 tablespoon ground ginger: For that warm, spicy kick that gingerbread is known for. Freshly ground is always best if you can manage it!
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy sweetness that complements the ginger perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Just a pinch of this spice gives your cookies that classic holiday flavor—so aromatic!
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances all those lovely flavors.
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature so it creams beautifully with the sugars.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar: This adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor. Remember to pack it tightly into the measuring cup!
1/2 cup granulated sugar: For that classic sweetness we all adore in cookies.
1 large egg: This helps bind everything together and adds richness to the dough.
1/2 cup molasses: The star of the show! It gives these cookies their deep color and rich flavor. Don’t skip it!

How to Prepare Easy Gingerbread Cookies

Preheat the Oven

First things first, we need to get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this step is crucial! Preheating ensures your cookies bake evenly and rise beautifully. You don’t want to skip this part—it makes a world of difference!

Combine Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s whisk together our dry ingredients in a bowl. Grab those 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until well combined. This step is super important because it distributes the baking soda and spices evenly throughout the flour, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor!

Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, it’s time to cream together the softened butter, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer, and beat until it’s light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. You’re looking for a pale and airy mixture; this is what gives your cookies that delightful texture!

Mix in Egg and Molasses

Next up, add in 1 large egg and 1/2 cup of molasses to your creamed mixture. Mix well until everything is fully combined and looks smooth. The molasses adds that rich, warm flavor, so don’t rush this step—make sure it’s blended in nicely!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now we’re going to gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. I like to add the dry mix in three parts, stirring gently after each addition. This helps avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough cookies. Just mix until you see no more flour—don’t worry if it looks a bit crumbly; it’ll come together!

Shape the Cookies

Time to get your hands a little messy! Roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You can fit about 12 cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them some space to spread. Don’t be afraid to give them a little squish if you want flatter cookies; it’s all about your preference!

Bake the Cookies

Pop your baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—look for the edges to be slightly firm and the centers to look set but still a tad soft. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake!

Cool and Store

Once they’re out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This is important because it helps them maintain their shape. After they’re completely cool, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and tasty. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, these easy gingerbread cookies are a total game-changer! First off, they’re quick to whip up—just about 25 minutes from start to finish, and you’ll have a delicious batch ready to share. They’re not only easy to make; they’re also incredibly satisfying to eat. Each bite is packed with that warm, spicy flavor that just screams holiday cheer!

What I love the most is how versatile they are. You can keep them simple or go all out with decorations—icing, sprinkles, or even some festive candy on top! Plus, they make the perfect addition to holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or just cozy nights at home with a cup of hot cocoa.

And here’s a little secret: they also freeze beautifully, so you can make a big batch ahead of time and always have some on hand for unexpected guests or late-night cravings. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a holiday staple in your home!

Tips for Success

If you want your easy gingerbread cookies to turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips that I swear by:

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so measuring your ingredients correctly is crucial! Use the spoon and level method for your flour to avoid dense cookies. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife—no scooping directly from the bag!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend together smoothly and creates that light, fluffy texture we love.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely don’t want that!
Chill the Dough (Optional): If you find the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before shaping. This makes it much easier to handle and can help your cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Keep an Eye on the Oven: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the recommended baking time. You want the edges to be set but the centers slightly soft—trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool!
Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also helps with even baking. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference!
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices to match your taste! If you love nutmeg or allspice, add a pinch! It’s all about making these cookies your own.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to gingerbread cookie perfection. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into those delightful cookies, let’s talk about nutrition! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. That said, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each easy gingerbread cookie:

Calories: 120
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg

These cookies are a wonderful treat, perfect for the holidays or any time you need a little sweetness in your life. Just remember, everything in moderation! Enjoy your baking adventure!

FAQ About Easy Gingerbread Cookies

I get a lot of questions about these easy gingerbread cookies, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones together!

How do I store the cookies?
Once your cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!

Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure they’re fully cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature.

Can I use different spices?
Of course! If you prefer a different spice blend, feel free to experiment! Try adding nutmeg, cardamom, or even a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. It’s all about what flavors you love!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

What if I don’t have molasses?
If you find yourself without molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup. The flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious!

Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or anything festive. Let your creativity shine—it’s one of the best parts of baking these treats!

How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for the edges to be set and slightly firm while the centers should still appear soft. They’ll continue to firm up while cooling, so don’t worry if they seem a bit underdone right out of the oven!

Got more questions? I’m all ears! Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need more tips or ideas. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got a delicious batch of easy gingerbread cookies, let’s talk about how to elevate your cookie experience! These little delights are perfect for sharing and can be paired with a variety of tasty treats that will make your holiday gatherings even more special.

Hot Cocoa: There’s nothing quite like a warm mug of hot cocoa to accompany your cookies. The rich, chocolatey goodness pairs beautifully with the spicy flavors of gingerbread. You could even add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra festive touch!
Eggnog: For a classic holiday vibe, serve your cookies with a glass of eggnog. The creamy, spiced drink complements the gingerbread perfectly. You might even want to dip your cookies right in—yum!
Milk: Can’t go wrong with a cold glass of milk! It’s a timeless pairing that brings out the sweetness and spiciness of your cookies.
Fruit Platter: Balance out the sweetness by serving your cookies with a fresh fruit platter. Think slices of crisp apples, juicy oranges, or some tart cranberries. The bright flavors will add a refreshing contrast!
Cheese Board: If you want to get a little adventurous, try adding your gingerbread cookies to a cheese board. Soft cheeses like brie or a sharp cheddar can create an intriguing flavor combination that your guests will love!
Decorating Station: Set up a fun decorating station where everyone can personalize their own cookies with icing, sprinkles, and other festive toppings. It’s a great activity for families and kids, and it makes for a delightful display!

Whatever you choose to serve alongside your easy gingerbread cookies, I promise they’ll be a hit! So gather your friends and family, make some warm drinks, and enjoy the holiday spirit together with these delightful treats!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.