Classic Gingerbread Cookies

These spiced cookies are crisp on the edges, chewy in the center, and filled with the warm flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses. They’re a holiday must-bake!


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🛒 Ingredients (makes 2–3 dozen cookies, depending on size)

3 cups all-purpose flour

¾ cup packed brown sugar

½ cup salted butter, softened

½ cup molasses

1 large egg

1 tsp baking soda

2 tsp ground ginger

2 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground cloves

½ tsp nutmeg


For Decorating (optional):

Royal icing or simple powdered sugar glaze

Sprinkles, candies, or sugar pearls



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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy.


2. Add egg and molasses; beat until combined.


3. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.


4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet until a dough forms.



Step 2: Chill the Dough

Divide dough into 2 discs, wrap in plastic, and chill at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours). This makes rolling easier.


Step 3: Roll & Cut

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).


2. Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.


3. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes, transferring to parchment-lined baking sheets.



Step 4: Bake

Bake 8–10 minutes (less for softer cookies, more for crispier). Cool completely on wire racks before decorating.


Step 5: Decorate & Enjoy

Pipe icing onto cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles or candies.



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🌟 Tips & Variations

Softer cookies: Roll slightly thicker and bake for the shorter time.

Extra spice: Add a pinch of black pepper for a traditional Scandinavian twist.

Make-ahead: Dough freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before rolling.

Decorating hack: Use melted white chocolate if you don’t want to make icing.