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.
