Gingerbread Cookies(50 To 60 Cookies)
Gingerbread cookies offer a warm, spicy flavor with hints of ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon, perfect for holiday festivities or cozy gatherings. Their crisp edges and chewy centers make them a delightful treat for all ages, especially when decorated with icing or enjoyed plain with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons ginger ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda ⓘ
- 1 cup margarine, melted ⓘ
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk ⓘ
- 1 cup unsulfured molasses
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract ⓘ
- 3/4 teaspoon lemon extract ⓘ
- 4 cups stone-ground or unbleached flour ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine the sugar, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add the melted margarine, evaporated milk, and molasses to the dry ingredients.
- Add vanilla and lemon extracts, if desired.
- Mix well until the dough is combined.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring constantly.
- Ensure the dough becomes stiff enough to handle without sticking to fingers.
- Knead the dough for a smoother texture.
- Add up to 1/2 cup additional flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer gingerbread cookie, consider reducing the flour slightly or adding an extra tablespoon of molasses. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to increase the ginger or cinnamon. You can substitute butter for margarine if desired. To enhance the texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out. This recipe is great for holiday baking, and you can also try variations like adding chocolate chips or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These gingerbread cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside a festive dessert like Striped Pudding Cake for a delightful sweet spread. For added flair, decorate the cookies with icing or sprinkles, or serve them with a side of warm apple cider for a comforting treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gingerbread Cookies(50 To 60 Cookies) contains roughly 641 calories, with 12g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2182mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
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 use all-purpose flour instead of stone-ground flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for stone-ground or unbleached flour in this recipe without any issues. The texture may slightly differ, but the cookies will still turn out delicious. Just make sure to measure the flour accurately to maintain the right dough consistency.
What is the best way to roll out the dough?
To roll out the dough easily, dust your surface and rolling pin with a bit of flour to prevent sticking. If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling. You can also roll it between two sheets of parchment paper for less mess and easier handling.
How can I make my gingerbread cookies more decorative?
To decorate your gingerbread cookies, use royal icing or fondant to create designs. You can also add colored sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive touch. Consider using cookie cutters in various shapes to make your cookies more visually appealing, and browse more American recipes for inspiration on fun decorations.
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).