introduction
These Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are warm, spiced, and easy to make. The dough stays soft and you can cut fun shapes. If you like spiced holiday treats, also try Chewy Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies for another simple cookie idea.
why make this recipe
You get soft cookies with warm spice flavor. The recipe uses common ingredients. You can make many cookies quickly. Kids enjoy cutting and decorating the shapes.
how to make Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies
Ingredients :
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Icing and decorations (optional)
Directions :
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut into gingerbread man shapes and place on a baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are firm. Let cool before decorating with icing and toppings if desired.
how to serve Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies
Serve the cookies cooled or slightly warm. Add icing, sprinkles, or chocolate for fun. Pair with milk, tea, or hot cocoa.
how to store Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
tips to make Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies
- Soften butter to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chill dough if it feels too soft to cut.
- Do not overbake; remove when edges are set to keep them chewy.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats for easy baking and cleanup.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for more warmth.
- Use dark molasses for a deeper flavor.
- Make mini cookies for bite-size treats.
- Swap some flour for whole wheat for a heartier cookie.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes. Wrap dough and chill for up to 48 hours or freeze for up to 1 month.
Q: How do I keep the cookies soft?
A: Do not overbake and store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to help keep moisture.
Q: Can I use cookie cutters of other shapes?
A: Yes. Any cookie cutter works. Just adjust bake time for very small shapes.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter gives best flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
These soft and chewy gingerbread men are easy and fun for the holidays. For another tried-and-true version, see Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies on Mom Loves Baking.