Indulge in the warm and inviting aroma of freshly baked soft gingerbread cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing during the holidays or enjoying with a hot cup of tea. With their tender texture and rich spices, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Follow this easy recipe and impress your family and friends with your baking skills!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 5g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Sodium: 80mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 25g
– Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a single cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and molasses to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Serving and Pairings
These soft gingerbread cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of spiced tea. They can also be decorated with royal icing for festive occasions.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to freeze them, layer parchment paper between the cookies and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to restore their softness.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overbaking can lead to hard cookies, so keep an eye on them.
- Not chilling the dough can result in spreading too much during baking.
- Using old spices can diminish flavor; always check freshness.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Skipping the parchment paper can cause sticking.
Helpful Tips
- For a stronger flavor, let the dough rest overnight in the fridge.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice.
- Use cookie cutters for fun shapes during the holidays.
- Consider adding chocolate chips for a twist.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just roll and bake when you’re ready.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are firm and the centers look slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or even edible glitter.
What can I do with leftover cookies?
Leftover cookies can be crumbled and used as a topping for ice cream or yogurt, adding a delicious flavor.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well! Just ensure they’re stored properly in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
Conclusion
Soft gingerbread cookies are a delightful treat that bring warmth and joy to any occasion. With their rich flavors and soft texture, they are sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious cookies with your loved ones!
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and molasses to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
