Introduction
Nothing says “holidays” quite like the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. These Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies put a delightful twist on the classic recipe, resulting in cookies that are tender, chewy, and bursting with festive flavors. Whether you’re leaving them out for Santa or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to become a holiday tradition in your home.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Preparation Steps
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight. This will help the flavors develop and make the dough easier to handle.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, roll the chilled dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar to coat evenly.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are soft and puffy.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Flavor Profile
These Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and warming flavors. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a classic gingerbread taste that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. The molasses adds a rich, deep sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.
What sets these cookies apart is their texture – they’re soft, chewy, and slightly crisp around the edges. The granulated sugar coating adds a delightful crunch and sparkle to each bite, making these cookies as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Serving Suggestions
These Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for enjoying in a variety of ways:
- Serve them with a tall glass of cold milk or a mug of hot cocoa for a classic holiday treat.
- Use them to make festive ice cream sandwiches with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
- Crumble them over yogurt or oatmeal for a tasty breakfast or snack.
- Package them in decorative tins or boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Variations
- Chocolate Dipped: Melt some semisweet chocolate and dip half of each cooled cookie for an extra indulgent treat.
- Orange Zest: Add 1 tbsp of grated orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle cooled cookies with a simple maple glaze made from confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk.
- Gingerbread Cut-Outs: For a more traditional look, roll out the chilled dough and use cookie cutters to create festive shapes. Decorate with royal icing, if desired.
Conclusion
These Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a delightful twist on a holiday classic. With their tender, chewy texture and warm, spicy flavors, they’re sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. The recipe’s simplicity and the fact that the dough can be made ahead make these cookies an excellent choice for busy holiday baking.
Whether you’re leaving them out for Santa, sharing them with friends and family, or simply enjoying them yourself, these Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a delicious way to celebrate the season. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. Happy holidays and happy baking!
