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Traditional Gingerbread Cookies

Delightfully spiced gingerbread cookies transformed into a magical winter village, perfect for festive occasions and cherished memories.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Gingerbread Cookies
  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Feathery and fine, ensuring a tender cookie.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Helps the cookies rise perfectly.
  • 2 tbsp ground ginger Aromatic and spicy, setting the tone for this treat.
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon Warm and sweet, reminiscent of cozy winter evenings.
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves Earthy and rich, deepening the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances the sweetness, balancing the spices.
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Creamy and rich, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar Adds moisture and a deep caramel-like flavor.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent, giving structure.
  • 1/2 cup molasses Delivers the signature gingerbread flavor.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the overall aroma.
For the Royal Icing Decoration
  • 2 large egg whites Provides a smooth base for icing.
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar Essential for perfect icing consistency.
  • 1/2 tsp lemon juice Balances sweetness and ensures icing stability.
  • Food coloring (optional) For vibrant village details.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and whisk until smooth.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a rich dough forms.
  6. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least one hour.
  7. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread shapes.
Baking
  1. Bake cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets for 8-10 minutes, or until golden.
  2. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Decoration
  1. To prepare the royal icing, beat egg whites, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until stiff peaks form.
  2. Decorate the cooled cookies with icing, adding food coloring for splash.
  3. Let decorated cookies sit for 1-2 hours to allow the icing to harden.

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining shape during baking. Monitor baking closely to avoid overbaking. Enjoy these cookies as gifts or festive decorations.