Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Experience the warm, inviting flavors of the holidays with these Soft Gingerbread Cookies topped with a luscious maple glaze. Perfectly spiced and irresistibly chewy, these cookies bring a touch of festive cheer to any gathering or cozy night in. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
The Joy of Baking Gingerbread
Baking gingerbread cookies is a time-honored tradition that brings warmth and nostalgia to the holiday season. The delightful aroma of spices filling your home creates a comforting atmosphere, perfect for gathering with friends and family. This recipe for Soft Gingerbread Cookies not only allows you to enjoy the process of baking but also provides a chance to bond with loved ones as you cut out festive shapes and decorate them together.
Each bite of these cookies delivers a comforting blend of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, capturing the essence of holiday baking. The soft, chewy texture makes them a favorite among cookie lovers. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared at a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.
Creative Decorating Ideas
Once your gingerbread cookies are baked and cooled, the fun of decorating begins! Consider using royal icing, sprinkles, or even edible glitter to add a festive touch. You could also create themed cookies by using various cookie cutters, such as stars, trees, and gingerbread people. Encourage creativity by letting each family member personalize their cookies, making it a memorable holiday activity.
For a simple, elegant finish, drizzle the maple glaze over the cooled cookies. The sweet touch pairs beautifully with the spices of the cookie, creating a delightful contrast. If you’re hosting a holiday party, consider arranging these decorated cookies on a platter as a scrumptious centerpiece that will surely impress your guests.
Storing and Freezing Tips
To keep your Soft Gingerbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, making them a convenient treat for holiday snacking. If you prefer to bake ahead of time, consider freezing the dough or the baked cookies. Wrapped tightly in plastic, the dough can be frozen for up to three months, ensuring you’ll have cookies ready for last-minute gatherings.
Baked cookies can also be frozen for longer preservation. Simply layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or briefly warm them in the oven for that just-baked flavor. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these gingerbread cookies are a festive delight!
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gingerbread Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Maple Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Mix the ingredients well to ensure a uniform dough.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the molasses and egg until well blended. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Bake the Cookies
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes and place on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cooling completely.
Make the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and let set.
Enjoy your deliciously soft gingerbread cookies!
Gingerbread Cookie Variations
While this recipe beautifully highlights the classic flavors of gingerbread, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to suit your taste. Consider adding chopped nuts for a delightful crunch or dried fruits for natural sweetness. You can also infuse your dough with citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, adding a refreshing twist to the traditional cookie.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, try incorporating black pepper or cardamom for an extra kick. Each variation allows you to customize the cookies to your preference, making this recipe not only versatile but also a canvas for your culinary creativity.
Pairing Suggestions
Soft Gingerbread Cookies pair wonderfully with several beverages, enhancing the overall experience. A warm cup of spiced chai or a classic hot cocoa complements the cookie's flavors beautifully. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside mulled wine or a rich eggnog during holiday celebrations.
These cookies are also great for gifting. Package them in decorative boxes or jars, and share with friends and family as a thoughtful holiday treat. Not only do they taste amazing, but their classic flair makes them a perfect addition to any holiday spread.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies before or after glazing. Wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
→ What can I substitute for molasses?
You can use honey or agave syrup, but it may alter the flavor and texture.
Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze
Experience the warm, inviting flavors of the holidays with these Soft Gingerbread Cookies topped with a luscious maple glaze. Perfectly spiced and irresistibly chewy, these cookies bring a touch of festive cheer to any gathering or cozy night in. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Created by: Hallie Foster
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Gingerbread Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Maple Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the molasses and egg until well blended. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes and place on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cooling completely.
In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and let set.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 1g