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–+ servings
Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

Moist Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

Soft, spiced gingerbread cookies with a rich molasses flavor and moist texture.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 24 Cookies

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup dark brown sugar packed
  • ½ cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream adds moisture
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest optional for a subtle citrusy kick

Instructions
 

  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  • Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Mix in the molasses, egg, vanilla extract, and milk or heavy cream. The cream ensures the dough stays moist.
  • Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft. If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate for 1 hour to make it easier to work with.
  • Preheat and Shape: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness for cut-out shapes, or scoop small mounds for round cookies.
  • Bake: Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  • Decorate: Once cooled, decorate with royal icing, powdered sugar, or enjoy plain!

Notes

Molasses is Key: Using dark molasses adds moisture and enhances the gingerbread flavor.
Chill the Dough: If the dough is sticky, chilling it for at least an hour will make it easier to handle and prevent over-spreading.
Don’t Overbake: Slightly underbaking the cookies ensures they stay soft and moist.
Keyword cookies, dessert
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