There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies wafting through the house, instantly bringing to mind the warmth and joy of the holiday season. This delightful gingerbread recipe is more than just a treat; it’s an opportunity to create beautiful memories with your loved ones. With festively-shaped cookies adorned with elegant white icing, they’re perfect not only for indulging your sweet tooth but also for stirring up the festive cheer. Gather your family, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a fun-filled baking adventure with this enchanting recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Gingerbread Recipe - Zynahz

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 24 cookies

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • White decorating icing
Gingerbread Recipe - Zynahz

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into festive shapes like stars and bells.
  6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
  7. Once cooled, decorate the cookies with white icing to your heart’s content. Enjoy!

Helpful Tips

  • For an easier rollout, dust your rolling pin with flour.
  • Chilling the dough is essential for keeping the shapes intact during baking.
  • Get creative with your decorations! Use colored icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter to make your gingerbread cookies shine.

Storage Instructions and Ingredient Substitutions

Store your gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out.

If you need substitutions, you can use dark corn syrup in place of molasses and margarine instead of butter.

Gingerbread Recipe - Zynahz

Pairings

These gingerbread cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of hot chocolate or spiced cider. They also make a charming addition to a holiday cookie platter alongside shortbread, sugar cookies, and peppermint bark.

At Zynahz, we believe in bringing joy and creativity into the kitchen, making every cooking and baking experience a delightful adventure. We hope this gingerbread recipe fills your home with warmth and laughter. We’d love to see your cookie creations, so feel free to tag us on social media using #ZynahzGingerbread. Share this recipe with your friends and family and spread the festive cheer. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on Zynahz and sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates. Happy baking!

Last Update: February 10, 2025