Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are not just your average holiday treat; they’re a delightful combination of warm spices and rich chocolate that make every bite a cozy experience. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen during the winter months—perfect for gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. The distinct crinkled top dusted with powdered sugar gives these cookies a festive look, making them a joyous addition to any dessert table.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are many reasons to whip up a batch of Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies at home. For one, they are incredibly easy to make, so even novice bakers can impress their family and friends with minimal effort. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a baking time of just 10-12 minutes, these cookies come together quickly, perfect for last-minute gatherings or holiday treats.
But what truly sets these cookies apart is their unique flavor profile. The combination of spices—ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—along with cocoa powder makes each bite delightful and indulgent. Trust me, your guests will be reaching for seconds!
“These cookies are the perfect mix of gingerbread and chocolate! I make them every year, and they disappear within minutes.” – A satisfied baker
The cooking process explained
Making Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is straightforward, requiring a few simple steps. First, you’ll prepare your dry ingredients, then cream your butter and sugar. After combining everything, the dough will need some chilling time before rolling into charmingly crinkled balls, which are then coated in powdered sugar. Bake until they are soft yet set, and you’ll soon have a plate full of festive goodies.
What you’ll need
To get started on your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Feel free to swap ingredients based on dietary needs. For example, you could use coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free option.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add molasses, vanilla extract, and the egg to the butter mixture, blending well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is fully combined.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes for the best texture.
- Once chilled, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar for that snowy finish.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience in creative ways. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures. Pair them with a hot cup of spiced tea or coffee, making them perfect for a winter afternoon treat. For a more festive touch, why not plate them next to some holiday-themed decorations?
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your cookies stay fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, allowing you to enjoy them over several days. If you’d like to save them for later, consider freezing the dough or baked cookies. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect texture.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; this will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Experiment with different types of cocoa powder. Dark cocoa gives an intense chocolate flavor, while Dutch-process cocoa adds a smoother, sweeter profile.
Creative twists
For those looking to put a unique spin on Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, consider the following variations:
- Add white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise inside.
- Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Try different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a flavor twist.
Common questions
How long do these cookies take to prepare?
The preparation time is about 30 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes for baking.
Can I substitute molasses?
Yes, you can use maple syrup as an alternative. Just note that it will slightly change the flavor.
How do I know if the cookies are done?
The edges should look set while the centers still appear soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For Dusting
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add molasses, vanilla extract, and the egg to the butter mixture, blending well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is fully combined.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes for the best texture.
Baking
- Once chilled, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar for that snowy finish.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
