Gingerbread Cookies with Icing

Discovering gingerbread cookies with their warm spices and sweet icing felt like unwrapping a nostalgic holiday gift every time I baked them. The crisp edges with a soft center instantly brought back memories of family gatherings and joyful kitchen chaos.

I remember the first time unexpected guests arrived just as I pulled these cookies from the oven. Their smiles and compliments turned a simple treat into an unforgettable moment.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: I always reach for flour that’s fresh from the bag to keep the cookies tender yet sturdy
• Brown sugar: Packed tightly to bring that rich molasses undertone which pairs perfectly with the spices
• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature to blend smoothly for that perfect dough texture
• Molasses: The heart of the flavor, dark and robust, giving those classic deep notes
• Ground ginger and cinnamon: Freshly measured for a warm, spicy kick every time
• Powdered sugar: Sifted to ensure the icing is silky smooth and pipe-able

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Start by creaming the butter and brown sugar until the texture is fluffy and light, filling the kitchen with a cozy, sweet aroma.

Mix Flavors:

Blend in the egg and molasses, watching the mixture deepen in color and richness as the sticky molasses melds in perfectly.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

Whisk together the flour and spices until evenly mixed, the scent of ginger and cinnamon already stirring your appetite.

Form the Dough:

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until a soft dough forms—you'll feel it come together nicely without becoming tough.

Chill Out:

Divide and flatten the dough into discs, then wrap and chill for at least an hour; this step is the secret to keeping cookies from spreading too much.

Roll and Cut:

On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to about 1/4 inch thickness, then cut shapes with your favorite cookie cutters—each one a little piece of holiday spirit.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake at 350°F, watching until edges firm up just right, while the kitchen fills with irresistible spice scents.

Let Cool:

Cool on baking sheets briefly before transferring to racks so cookies set evenly and remain crisp on the outside but tender inside.

Prepare Icing:

Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until perfectly smooth. Adjust thickness as you go, then color and decorate to bring your creations to life.

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There was a moment when this recipe became more than just cookies; it was a tradition to bring comfort and celebration every year, filling homes and hearts alike.

Keeping It Fresh

Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep that crisp outside and soft center intact. If you want to freshen up older cookies, a quick zap in the microwave with a damp paper towel helps bring back some softness without losing texture.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Gingerbread cookies taste fantastic alongside a cup of hot cider or your favorite tea. For holiday parties, arranging them on a festive platter with some nuts and dried fruit creates an irresistible centerpiece.

Making It Ahead for the Freezer

You can make the dough up to two days ahead, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze the dough discs and thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling out.

• Don't forget to label your dough with the date to stay organized
• Chilling the dough again after thawing helps with rolling precision
• Adding a pinch of cinnamon to your icing can add a subtle warmth to the final touch

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Thanks for spending time together in the kitchen—I hope these gingerbread cookies bring you as much joy as they have me. Until next time, happy baking and warm holidays!

Your Questions Answered

→ What gives gingerbread its signature flavor?

The distinctive taste comes from a blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and molasses which creates warm and rich spice notes.

→ How do I achieve a soft center with crisp edges?

Chilling the dough before baking and cutting it to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness helps create crisp edges while keeping the center tender.

→ Can the icing be colored or flavored differently?

Yes, the icing can be tinted with food coloring and flavored by adding pure vanilla or other extracts to suit your taste.

→ How long should the dough be chilled?

For best results, wrap the dough discs and chill for at least one hour to firm up and enhance flavor development.

→ What storage method keeps these baked treats fresh?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to preserve texture and flavors.

→ Are there suggested tools for easy preparation?

Essential tools include mixing bowls, a whisk or mixer, rolling pin, cookie cutters, baking sheets lined with parchment, and piping bags for icing.