Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
Chewy gingerbread cutout cookies are a delightful holiday treat that brings warmth and festivity to any gathering. Whether you’re spending time with family, creating memories with friends, or just indulging in some winter magic, these cookies are perfect for all occasions. Simple to make and easy to decorate, they embody the essence of holiday baking, filling your home with the sweet smell of spices and sweetness.
Why Make This Recipe
Making chewy gingerbread cutout cookies is not only about enjoying a tasty treat; it’s about creating traditions and special moments. Baking these cookies is a fantastic activity for families, allowing everyone to join in on the fun. You can personalize them with various shapes and decorations, making it a beautiful bonding experience. Plus, with every cookie you enjoy, you’ll be reminded of cherished times spent together. The chewy texture, combined with the warm spices, ensures that these cookies will be a favorite for years to come.
How to Make Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
Making chewy gingerbread cutout cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can master, even novice bakers! Follow these simple steps to create your own festive batch.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Royal icing for decoration
- Sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves), and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cookie texture.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to roll out.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes for your cookies.
- Place the cutout cookies onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving space between them as they will spread slightly.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to brown. The centers should still look soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can decorate with royal icing and sprinkles as desired.
Pro Tips for Success with Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
- Use Fresh Spices: The flavor of your cookies largely depends on the freshness of your spices. Using fresh ground spices will enhance the taste and aroma.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, ensuring they maintain their shape.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out, as they will firm up as they cool.
- Use a Floured Surface: Roll the dough out on a floured surface to avoid sticking. This will make it easier to cut out shapes without tearing the dough.
- Creative Decorations: Experiment with decorating using royal icing and festive sprinkles. This is a fun way to personalize each cookie.
- Make Ahead: These cookies can be prepared in advance and stored for several days, allowing you to enjoy the baking process without last-minute stress.
Flavor Variations for Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
- Chocolate Gingerbread: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist. Substitute 1/4 cup of the flour for cocoa powder.
- Orange Zest: Adding some grated orange zest to the dough provides a bright flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Maple Flavor: Replace the molasses with maple syrup for a subtly sweet twist.
- Spiced Variants: Play around with spices by adding nutmeg or cardamom for a different spice profile.
Serving Suggestions for Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
These cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Holiday Gatherings: Present them on a festive platter for holiday parties or family gatherings.
- Gift Giving: Package them in decorative bags or boxes to give as gifts during the holiday season.
- Cookie Decorating Parties: Host a decorating party where friends and family can decorate their cookies.
- Coffee Pairing: Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
Proper storage of your chewy gingerbread cutout cookies will keep them fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but let them come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: These cookies can also be frozen. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to three months. To defrost, simply leave them at room temperature until they soften.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|———-|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 90mg |
FAQ About Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that using whole wheat will give the cookies a slightly denser texture and a nuttier flavor. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
How do you achieve the perfect chewy texture?
The key to achieving a chewy texture is to not overbake the cookies. They should come out slightly soft in the center; they will firm up as they cool. Chilling the dough before baking also prevents the cookies from spreading too much, maintaining their shape and chewiness.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to a week before baking. You can also bake the cookies ahead of time, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. However, this may slightly alter the flavor and texture. For a more similar result, you can mix brown sugar with a bit of water to mimic the consistency of molasses.
How do I decorate the cookies?
You can use royal icing for decorating your cookies. To make royal icing, mix egg whites with powdered sugar, adding small amounts of water until you reach the desired consistency. Use piping bags or spatulas to create beautiful designs, and don’t forget to add sprinkles for a festive touch!
Final Thoughts
Chewy gingerbread cutout cookies are not just a dessert; they represent joy, creativity, and togetherness. From the fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen to the excitement of decorating with family and friends, these cookies create lasting memories. Simple enough for beginners but delightful for all palates, they are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. So grab your cookie cutters and get ready to spread some holiday cheer with these delightful treats!
Print
Chewy Gingerbread Cutout Cookies
- Total Time: 130 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful and chewy gingerbread cutout cookies that bring warmth and festivity to any gathering.
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Royal icing for decoration
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves), and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes for your cookies.
- Place the cutout cookies onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate with royal icing and sprinkles as desired.
Notes
Ensure to use fresh spices for the best flavor, and don’t skip the chilling step to maintain cookie shape.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American