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Classic Gingerbread Cookies

Classic Gingerbread Cookies are warmly spiced, soft yet slightly crisp cookies made with molasses and a blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—perfect for holiday baking and decorating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 3/4 cup unsulphured molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp ground ginger
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Optional: royal icing or sprinkles for decorating

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and molasses, mixing until well combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
  3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until dough forms. Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters.
  6. Place cookies on prepared sheets, spacing 1 inch apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just firm.
  7. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Decorate with icing or sprinkles once cooled, if desired.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and improves flavor.
  • Adjust baking time for softer or crisper cookies.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze undecorated cookies for longer storage.
  • Great for cookie exchanges, gifts, or decorating with kids.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, spiced cookies, molasses cookies, gingerbread men