Desserts

Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Name: Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 egg; 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With their rich aroma of spices like ginger and cinnamon, and their soft, chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, family moments, or simply as a cozy snack. Preparing them together can create wonderful memories, especially with little ones who love to decorate their very own gingerbread men. Let’s dive into the recipe to bring these delicious cookies to life!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 120
Protein: 1.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 16 grams
Fat: 6 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 70 mg

Why Make This Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

These Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are not just another festive treat; they are a scrumptious blend of spices that tantalize your taste buds with each bite. Their chewy texture makes them incredibly satisfying, while the fragrance of ginger and cinnamon wafts through your kitchen, evoking memories of festive gatherings and cozy evenings. Beyond their irresistible taste, creating these cookies is a wonderful way to engage with friends and family, making each batch a special occasion!

How to Make Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Creating these cookies is a simple yet rewarding process that involves mixing, chilling, and baking, resulting in delicious treats perfect for decorating and sharing.

Ingredients:

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 egg
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This step allows you to blend the dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that every cookie is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Mixing

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies light and chewy. Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until the dough comes together. Take care not to overmix; you want to maintain that soft, chewy texture.

Step 4: Chilling the Dough

Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into gingerbread shapes using your favorite cookie cutters and transfer them to baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cookies are set but still soft in the middle.

Step 6: Cooling

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, feel free to decorate them as desired!

How to Serve Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Serve these delightful cookies warm or at room temperature, and watch as they disappear quickly! Pair them with a glass of milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or herbal tea. They also make fantastic gifts during the holiday season when beautifully packaged.

How to Store Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Expert Tips for Perfect Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Ensure your butter is really soft to create a fluffy dough. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it in short bursts to soften it.
Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist.
For extra fun, add some chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough before baking.
Adjust the rolling thickness to your preference; thicker cookies will be softer and chewier, while thinner cookies will be crisper.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Gingerbread: Replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey spin!
Frosted Gingerbread: Top cooled cookies with royal icing in various colors for creative decorating.
Spiced Oats Version: Add rolled oats to the dough for a rustic texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use substitutes for molasses?
Yes! You can substitute honey or maple syrup in a pinch, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
How can I prevent my cookies from spreading?
Make sure to chill the dough adequately and keep your oven at the right temperature. A hot oven helps set the cookies quickly.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough feels sticky after chilling, add a bit more flour until it’s manageable.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.
What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
You can use icing, sprinkles, or even melted chocolate. Be creative!

Conclusion

Baking Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies is a heartwarming experience filled with delightful aromas and delicious flavors. Perfectly chewy with a spicy kick, these cookies are a hit during the holiday season or anytime you crave a sweet treat. Gather your loved ones, follow the simple steps, and create your own batch of gingerbread men that are sure to spread joy and warmth in every bite. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!