If there’s one cookie that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season, it’s the classic gingerbread man. My journey with this Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookie Recipe began years ago, during a cozy winter afternoon spent baking with my children. The sweet scent of spices filling the kitchen and the laughter as we decorated each cookie created warm memories that linger. This recipe not only delivers on taste but also offers a delightful activity for family bonding or festive gatherings, making it a perennial favorite that brings joy and nostalgia into our homes.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are many reasons to whip up a batch of these gingerbread men cookies. First and foremost, the combination of warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg creates a flavor profile that’s perfect for chilly days. Plus, they’re soft, chewy, and simply irresistible — a major hit with kids and adults alike. This recipe is relatively quick and budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice when you need a holiday treat or a sweet pick-me-up during the week.

“These cookies were a hit at our holiday party! Soft, chewy, and just the right amount of spice. I’ll definitely make them every Christmas!” — Sarah J.

How this recipe comes together

To create these delightful cookies, we’ll begin by making a rich dough that brings together melted butter, brown sugar, and spices. Then, after chilling, you’ll roll out the dough, use cookie cutters to form the classic shapes, and bake them to perfection. The last step involves frosting and decorating with sprinkles — a fun activity for everyone involved!

What you’ll need

Gather these essential ingredients for your Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies:

3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup molasses
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon
1 Tbsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 whole egg
1 tsp. baking soda
3-3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
1 tsp. vanilla extract (for frosting)
3-4 Tbsp. milk (whole or reduced-fat for frosting)
Decorative candies or sprinkles (optional)

Substitutions you can consider include swapping out molasses for honey if you’re looking for a lighter flavor, or using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s dive into the preparation of your Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies:

Make the Cookie Dough: Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large bowl. Once melted, mix in the brown sugar and molasses until well combined. Add the vanilla extract, egg, salt, and spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves), mixing until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually incorporate this into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Shape and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread men shapes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm.
Cool the Cookies: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Frost the Cookies: Whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth to create your frosting. Decorate your cooled cookies with frosting and optional candies or sprinkles.

Best ways to enjoy it

These delightful gingerbread men cookies can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a warm cup of spiced cider, hot chocolate, or even coffee. For a fun twist, create gingerbread cookie sandwich delights by adding a layer of frosting between two cookies.

How to store

To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the dough before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight bag for up to three months. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

Helpful cooking tips

Ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the egg and butter. This will help create a more cohesive dough.
Don’t skip the chilling step; this enhances the flavor and keeps the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
If you’re looking for a more intense spice flavor, feel free to increase the amount of ginger or cinnamon.

Creative twists

While the classic gingerbread flavor is always a hit, you can try adding a twist! Consider incorporating orange zest for a citrusy note or use a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. For a more decadent treat, dip half of the cookies in chocolate after they cool.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
The preparation time for the dough is about 20 minutes, but remember to include chilling time, which is at least 2 hours or overnight.
Can I use alternative flours?
Yes! You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but be aware that it may slightly alter the texture.
How can I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much?
Properly chilling the dough is crucial. Also, ensure your baking powder hasn’t expired, as this can affect the rise and spread.
Is it safe to decorate with raw egg frosting?
If you’re concerned about using raw eggs, simply replace them with meringue powder mixed with water to achieve a similar frosting consistency.

Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

A classic holiday treat, these soft and chewy gingerbread men cookies are filled with warm spices, perfect for festive gatherings and family bonding.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 2 10

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American, Holiday

Servings 24 cookies

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup molasses can be substituted with honey
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon
1 Tbsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 whole egg
1 tsp. baking soda
3-3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Frosting

2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3-4 Tbsp. milk whole or reduced-fat
Decorative candies or sprinkles optional

Instructions

Preparation

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large bowl. Once melted, mix in the brown sugar and molasses until well combined.
Add the vanilla extract, egg, salt, and spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves), mixing until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually incorporate this into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread men shapes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Frosting and Decorating

Whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth to create your frosting.
Decorate your cooled cookies with frosting and optional candies or sprinkles.

Notes

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can freeze the dough before baking for up to three months.

Keyword Family Recipe, Festive Treats, Gingerbread Cookies, Holiday Baking, Soft and Chewy Cookies