Easy Gingerbread Men
Warm, spicy gingerbread men decorated with candies and raisins make delightful treats for holidays and special occasions, perfect for families and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cake mix, flour, eggs, oil, molasses, and ginger in a mixing bowl; mix until the dough is soft.
- Refrigerate the dough for 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut into gingerbread man shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place the cutouts on ungreased baking sheets, 3 inches apart.
- Decorate with assorted candies, decors, or raisins.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges start to brown.
- Remove immediately from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing, as this helps the dough come together smoothly. If you don't have dark molasses, light molasses or honey can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves. This dough also works well for creating iced cookies, similar to those found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These gingerbread men are perfect for holiday gatherings and can be served alongside a warm mug of Ice Cream Eggnog. For a fun presentation, display them on a festive platter and encourage guests to decorate their own with icing and sprinkles. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store your gingerbread men in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container. If you need to reheat them, briefly warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a delightful texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Gingerbread Men contains roughly 180 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the gingerbread dough! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then roll out and cut into shapes as directed.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in this recipe. Make sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount to help with the dough's structure. This can help you enjoy vegetarian recipes without gluten.
How can I make these cookies more decorative?
You can easily make your gingerbread men more decorative by using royal icing to pipe designs onto the cooled cookies. Additionally, consider using colored sugar or edible glitter for a festive touch. This adds a fun element to your baking and makes them stand out during holiday celebrations.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).