Gingerbread Man Cookies
These perfectly soft and chewy gingerbread man cookies are a delightful holiday treat, filled with warm spices and fond memories of baking with family.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Feel free to substitute with whole wheat flour.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger Increase for a stronger flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature for optimum creaming.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses Can substitute with honey for a different flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and molasses until fully integrated.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a cohesive dough forms.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing it to firm up.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the cold dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into your desired shapes.
- Carefully place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cookies are firm to the touch. Allow them to cool completely.
Decoration
- Decorate with Royal Icing, Glaze Icing, or Buttercream Frosting as desired.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.