Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the unmistakable aroma of warm spices and sweet molasses? One of my all-time favorite holiday traditions is baking Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for family gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cozy cup of hot cocoa. Their cheerful faces and spice-infused flavor make them a holiday staple that links memories to sweetness.

Why make this recipe

You’ll love diving into this recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, these cookies strike the perfect balance between thick and chewy, making each bite satisfyingly indulgent. Not to mention, they are a hit with both kids and adults alike, providing the perfect excuse to bring everyone together around a warm baking tray. Whether you’re preparing for the holiday season or just want a nostalgic treat, these gingerbread cookies are always the answer.

“Best gingerbread cookies ever! They turned out soft and full of flavor. My kids had so much fun decorating them!” – Emma, a satisfied baker.

How to make Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Let’s break down the steps to create these delicious cookies. The process includes blending dry and wet ingredients, chilling the dough for the right texture, and finally rolling it out to create those iconic gingerbread shapes. With just a few steps, you’ll be on your way to cookie heaven!

Ingredients

To bring these delightful cookies to life, gather the following ingredients:

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Decorations (like icing and candies for fun and flair)

If you’re looking to customize, consider substituting whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or using applesauce as a partial butter replacement for a lighter cookie.

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter along with the brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly combined.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This step helps achieve that chewy texture!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly flour a surface and roll out the chilled dough. Use cookie cutters to create your favorite shapes!
Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly firm.
Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing and candies.

How to serve Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

These playful cookies are fantastic on their own, but why not have a little fun with them? Consider serving them on a festive platter alongside hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also pair them with cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat, or use them as holiday decorations on your dessert table.

How to store

To keep your Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last about a week. If you’re freezing them, make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn; they should be good for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge!

Tips to make

Here are some extra tips to ensure your baking experience is a success:

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted; this will help the sugar incorporate well for a fluffier texture.
Chilling the dough isn’t just for flavor—it’s crucial for the dough’s structure, so don’t skip this step!
If you want to maximize the festive feels, let the kids take charge of decorating. It’s a great bonding activity!

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some creative spins on the classic recipe:

Add a 1/4 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruits for an added texture contrast.
Swapping in maple syrup for molasses can give a different, yet delightful flavor.
Try incorporating citrus zest, like orange or lemon, to brighten the spices.

FAQs

What is the best way to store gingerbread cookies?
To keep them fresh, store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months.

How long do these cookies last?
If stored properly, they can last about a week on the counter or up to three months in the freezer.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Now, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a batch of holiday joy with these Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies! Their warm, spicy aroma and delectable taste are sure to bring smiles to everyone who enjoys them.

Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

These delightful Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are perfect for the holiday season, combining spices and sweet molasses for a tasty treat that everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 10

Total Time 2 20

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American, Holiday

Servings 24 cookies

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is softened but not melted.
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decorations

Decorations (like icing and candies for fun and flair)

Instructions

Preparation

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter along with the brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly combined.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly flour a surface and roll out the chilled dough.
Use cookie cutters to create your favorite shapes.
Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly firm.
Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing and candies.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. For freezing, ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn; they'll last up to three months.

Keyword Chewy Cookies, Festive Treats, Gingerbread Cookies, Gingerbread Man Cookies, Holiday Baking