Gingerbread People
Gingerbread People are charming, festive cookies with warm spices and a hint of sweetness, perfect for holiday celebrations or cookie exchanges. Their aromatic blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves makes them a nostalgic treat for all ages, easily customized with decorations like raisins, nuts, or candies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening, honey, egg, and molasses in a bowl.
- In another bowl, sift together baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and flour.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a dough.
- Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut with cookie cutters into shapes.
- Decorate with raisins, nuts, licorice, and tiny candies as desired.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer gingerbread, consider reducing the flour by half a cup. You can also substitute part of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add an extra teaspoon of ginger or cinnamon. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These gingerbread people are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a fun activity with kids. Serve them alongside hot cocoa or a spiced tea for a cozy treat. They also pair beautifully with No Bake Coconut Cake for a festive dessert spread. Consider decorating them with royal icing for an extra festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gingerbread people in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in a preheated oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gingerbread People contains roughly 65 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% 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 a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, keeping in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture. If you use a liquid sweetener, you may need to adjust the flour to maintain the right dough consistency.
How can I make these gingerbread people healthier?
To make a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of shortening or use coconut oil instead. Additionally, substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour will add more fiber. You might also consider using less molasses or honey for a lower sugar option.
What can I use for decorating besides raisins and nuts?
You can get creative with decorations! Use mini chocolate chips, colored sprinkles, or edible glitter for a festive touch. Alternatively, try dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a natural sweetness. Royal icing can also be used for intricate designs.
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).