Classic Winter Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about baking gingerbread cookies during the winter. The smell of molasses, cinnamon, and ginger wafting through your home instantly turns any day into a cozy holiday moment. These Winter Gingerbread Cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for decorating with the kids. Whether you’re building a gingerbread house or creating a plate of festive treats for Santa, this recipe is your go-to for capturing that holiday spirit.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Royal Icing (Optional):

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk or water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Preparation Tips

Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. This makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies hold their shape.

Use parchment paper: Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Plan ahead for decorating: Have your piping bags, sprinkles, and cookie cutters ready to make the process fun and festive.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 8-10 minutes, depending on the size of the cookies. Let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Decorate (Optional)

Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make royal icing. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed. Decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or any festive toppings you like.

Make-Ahead & Storage

The dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Once baked, the cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. If decorating, let the icing dry completely before stacking the cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, spiced cider, or your favorite holiday latte. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Want to keep the kids entertained? Set up a decorating station with icing bags, candies, and edible glitter for a fun family activity.

Conclusion

These Winter Gingerbread Cookies are the quintessential holiday treat—fun to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for spreading cheer. Whether you’re baking them as a family tradition or just because you love the taste of gingerbread, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Bake a batch, share the joy, and don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite gingerbread shapes and decorating tips. Check out more winter-inspired recipes on Cozy Cadence for all your holiday baking needs. Happy holidays, mama! ❄️🍪