Description
Classic holiday treats that are soft, chewy, and perfect for festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling out the dough)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground ginger
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 1/2 sticks)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons warm water
- 2 tablespoons meringue powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Sprinkles of your choice
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until creamy.
- Add molasses and the egg to the butter mixture, then mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread men shapes.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are firm to the touch.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the royal icing, mix powdered sugar, warm water, meringue powder, and cream of tartar in a bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Use the icing to decorate the cooled cookies. Add sprinkles as desired.
Notes
For best flavor, let the dough chill overnight. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for three months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American