Gingerbread cookies have been around for centuries and have a unique history. The earliest known gingerbread cookies are believed to have originated in Europe in the 16th century, although the exact origin is unknown. The recipe was likely brought over to the United States by immigrants who were fond of the treat and wanted to bring it with them.
Gingerbread cookies are traditionally made with a combination of spices, such as ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, that give the cookie its signature taste and smell. The dough is then cut into shapes and decorated with icing or other sweet treats, such as gumdrops, raisins, and sprinkles.
Making gingerbread cookies at home is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Here is a simple recipe that you can make with your family:
Key Ingredients:
-2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
-½ teaspoon of baking soda
-1 teaspoon of ground ginger
-1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
-¼ teaspoon of ground cloves
-¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
-¾ cup of butter, softened
-¾ cup of packed brown sugar
-1 egg
-¼ cup of molasses
-2 tablespoons of hot water
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Want:
-Mixing bowl
-Measuring cups and spoons
-Electric mixer
-Rolling pin
-Cookie cutters
-Baking sheets
-Parchment paper
Baking Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and molasses to the butter and sugar mixture and mix until combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
- Add the hot water and mix until combined.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.
- Using cookie cutters, cut out your desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Allow the cookies to cool before decorating.
Gingerbread cookies can be decorated with traditional icing or with more creative options, such as melted chocolate, colored sprinkles, and candy canes. For an extra special touch, you can top the cookies with a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dollop of cream cheese frosting.
We hope you enjoy this festive treat!
Need other sweet treats to share? Find other great recipes.