Description
Classic gingerbread cookies with a delightful chewy center and crisp edges, infused with warm spices and topped with elegant royal icing. Perfect for the holidays!
Ingredients
Cookies:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp ground ginger
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup (1.5 sticks) unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup dark molasses
1 tsp vanilla extract
Royal Icing:
2 cups powdered sugar
1.5 tbsp meringue powder
3 tbsp warm water
1/2 tsp vanilla
Instructions
Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
Cream butter and sugar, then add wet ingredients.
Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet, form dough disks, and chill for three hours.
Prepare baking sheets and preheat your oven.
Roll out dough, cut shapes, and bake until edges are firm, then cool completely.
Mix icing ingredients until smooth and pipe onto cooled cookies.
Notes
Measure flour accurately by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid dry cookies.
Using softened butter is key for creaming it properly with the sugar, ensuring a smooth and well-emulsified dough.
Dark molasses is crucial for that authentic gingerbread flavor and rich, dark color. Don’t substitute with lighter molasses or corn syrup if you want true gingerbread taste.
Sift powdered sugar if you tend to get lumps.
For a touch of zest, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon of orange zest to the cookie dough.
For a bit of crunch, finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts could be folded into the dough, though this might slightly alter the texture.
Divide the icing and color portions with gel food coloring for a vibrant display, or add a touch of peppermint extract for a minty twist.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 8-12 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: Not specified
- Fat: Not specified
- Carbohydrates: Not specified
- Protein: Not specified