Soft Gingerbread Cookies (Printable Version)
Tender gingerbread with warm spices and soft centers, perfect for holiday celebrations and cozy moments.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Gingerbread Cookies
01 -
3 cups all-purpose flour
02 -
2 teaspoons ground ginger
03 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
04 -
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
05 -
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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3/4 teaspoon baking soda
07 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
08 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 -
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
10 -
1 large egg
11 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2/3 cup molasses
→ Royal Icing
13 -
2 large egg whites or 3 tablespoons meringue powder with 1/4 cup water
14 -
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
15 -
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar
→ Buttercream Icing
16 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
17 -
2 cups sifted powdered sugar
18 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
19 -
1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
02 -
Beat unsalted butter and packed brown sugar in a large bowl until fluffy, approximately 2 minutes.
03 -
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined. Mix in molasses thoroughly.
04 -
With mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two additions, mixing until just incorporated.
05 -
Divide dough into two equal portions, shape each into a flat disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
06 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 -
Remove one dough disc from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Lightly flour counter and rolling pin, unwrap dough, sprinkle flour on both sides, and roll to 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
08 -
Transfer cut shapes to prepared sheets and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until tops are set but not browned. Repeat with remaining dough, minimizing re-rolling.
09 -
If using egg whites, beat until frothy. Add lemon juice and 3 cups powdered sugar (or meringue powder and water if using). Beat for 5 minutes, adding more powdered sugar or liquid to adjust consistency. Transfer to piping bag for decorating.
10 -
Beat softened butter until creamy. Add vanilla extract, then gradually beat in powdered sugar about 1/2 cup at a time until desired sweetness is achieved. Mix in milk or cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency, adding powdered sugar as needed. Use piping bag or knife to decorate.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Chilling the dough improves flavor and prevents excessive spreading during baking.