Gingerbread Cookies

These cookies are warmly spiced, with crisp edges and soft centers—perfect for holiday decorating and eating.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
• ¾ cup unsulfured molasses
• 1 large egg

Instructions

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
2. Cream butter & sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and egg.
3. Combine: Gradually add dry mixture until dough forms.
4. Chill dough: Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Roll & cut: Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
6. Bake: Place on parchment-lined sheets and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until edges are set.
7. Cool & decorate: Let cool completely before icing or decorating.

Decorating Tips

• Use royal icing for crisp designs.
• Add sprinkles, candies, or edible glitter for festive flair.
• Pipe details like buttons, scarves, or snowflakes for gingerbread men and holiday shapes.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months.