Description

Soft gingerbread cookies with crisp edges, tender centers, and a rich molasses flavor blended with warm spices. Perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a cozy, classic treat.

Ingredients

3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp baking powder

1 tbsp ground ginger

1 tbsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground cloves

1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)

1/2 tsp salt

3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed

1 large egg

1/2 cup (120 ml) molasses

1 tsp vanilla extract

Granulated sugar, for rolling

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat in granulated sugar.
Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are set and centers remain soft.
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough enhances flavor and prevents spreading.

Do not overbake; cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness.

Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months or freeze unbaked dough balls and bake from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.

Optional additions include white chocolate drizzle, lemon glaze, orange zest, or sandwiching with cream cheese frosting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg