Gingerbread Men
Gingerbread Men are festive, spiced cookies with warm notes of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Their charming shapes make them perfect for holidays and special occasions. Soft on the inside with a slight crunch on the edges, these cookies are delightful for both kids and adults to enjoy together.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugar in a mixer bowl.
- Beat in egg.
- Add grated orange rind and dark corn syrup; mix well.
- Add dry ingredients and mix well.
- Chill the dough for 1 hour or longer before rolling out and cutting into shapes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your gingerbread men, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or substituting some of the sugar with brown sugar for a richer taste. If you're out of dark corn syrup, honey or maple syrup can work as alternatives. Ensure your margarine is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar, and chill the dough thoroughly to avoid spreading during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Gingerbread men are delightful on their own but can also be served with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy treat. They make excellent holiday gifts when decorated with icing. Pair them with a selection of other baked goods like Katie's Strawberry Bread for a festive platter that showcases a variety of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gingerbread men in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes, keeping an eye to prevent overbaking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gingerbread Men contains roughly 1186 calories, with 14g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2328mg per serving (101% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. It's best to use a mix of both for a lighter result. If you want a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
How can I decorate my gingerbread men?
You can decorate your gingerbread men with royal icing, colored sugar, or candy pieces for eyes and buttons. Consider using icing in various colors to create festive designs. Let the icing dry completely before stacking to prevent sticking.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to roll out, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Chilling the dough longer can also help firm it up, making it easier to handle.
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).