These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe are the perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup! With their soft and chewy texture, rich molasses flavor, and delightful crackled tops, these cookies stand out on any dessert table. Ideal for cookie exchanges or cozy nights at home, this festive treat combines classic spices like ginger and cinnamon, making it a beloved choice for December celebrations. You’ll love how easy they are to make from scratch, too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Spiced: The blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg provides a warm flavor that captures the essence of the holiday season.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy soft and chewy cookies with a beautiful crinkle top that adds visual appeal to your cookie platter.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, this recipe is beginner-friendly and great for baking with family.
- Versatile Treat: Whether for gifting or sharing at gatherings, these cookies are perfect for any occasion during the holiday season.
- Great for Kids: Involve little ones in shaping and rolling the dough; their excitement will elevate your baking experience!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to help ensure success in your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Cookie scoops
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your dry and wet ingredients separate before combining them.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: These tools save time and energy when creaming butter and sugar together.
- Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for even baking; ensure your cookies don’t stick by lining them with parchment paper.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 ¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60ml) molasses
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For Coating
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
How to Make Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 to 3 minutes).
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat again until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined.
- Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Step 2: Shape and Roll
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough using cookie scoops.
- Roll each portion into a ball; expect some stickiness.
- Roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until cookies have spread out with deep cracks on top but remain soft in the center.
- Allow cooling on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies! Perfect for sharing or savoring during cozy moments at home this holiday season!
How to Serve Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few creative ideas. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them at home, here are some serving suggestions to consider.
With Hot Beverages
- Coffee: Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The rich flavors of the cookies complement the coffee beautifully.
- Tea: Enjoy with spiced chai or herbal tea to enhance the warm spices in the cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: Dip these cookies into a mug of hot chocolate for an indulgent dessert experience.
On a Dessert Platter
- Cookie Assortment: Include these crinkle cookies alongside other holiday favorites like sugar cookies and peppermint bark for a festive spread.
- Cheese Board: Add them to a cheese board with soft cheeses and dried fruits for a unique flavor contrast.
Gift Packaging
- Decorative Boxes: Package these cookies in decorative boxes or tins tied with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season.
- Mason Jars: Layer them in mason jars with festive embellishments for an eye-catching presentation.
How to Perfect Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, follow these helpful tips. Each one enhances the flavor and texture of your baked treats.
- Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for creating those beautiful cracks while baking.
- Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices are fresh to maximize flavor. Old spices can diminish the delicious taste of your cookies.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour. This ensures consistent cookie results every time.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove cookies when they still appear soft in the center to maintain that chewy texture.
- Coat Generously in Sugar: Roll each dough ball thoroughly in powdered sugar before baking; this creates an impressive snowy finish and enhances the crinkle effect.
Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies can be paired perfectly with various side dishes that complement their spiced sweetness. Consider adding any of these options to your dessert table.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of gingerbread.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that pairs well with spiced cookies.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add richness and creaminess that beautifully contrasts with gingerbread flavors.
- Nut Mixes: A bowl of spiced nuts provides a crunchy texture and savory element alongside sweet treats.
- Chocolate Fondue: Offer melted chocolate for dipping; it’s an interactive dessert option that adds fun to the table.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream bar where guests can top their scoops with broken pieces of crinkle cookies, enhancing desserts creatively.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can sometimes be tricky, especially when you want the perfect Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
Bold measurement errors: Not measuring flour accurately can lead to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
Bold skipping the chill: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may not crack properly. Always refrigerate the dough for at least two hours.
Bold overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
Bold incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie texture. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated before baking.
Bold insufficient cooling time: Transferring cookies too soon can cause them to break. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes first.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store gingerbread crinkle cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
- Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
- Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and reheat for about 5 minutes.
- Bold Microwave: Warm individual cookies for 10-15 seconds on high.
- Bold Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for 30 seconds, covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe that can help you bake better!
How do I get my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies to be more chewy?
To achieve chewier cookies, ensure you don’t overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they still look slightly underdone.
What can I substitute for molasses in this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe?
If you don’t have molasses, consider using dark corn syrup or honey as alternatives, keeping in mind this will slightly change the flavor.
Can I make these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze the dough ahead of time. Just thaw it and bake when you’re ready to enjoy fresh cookies!
How should I store leftover Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to maintain freshness longer.
Final Thoughts
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Their delightful flavors and festive appearance make them a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize with different spices or add-ins like chocolate chips for a unique twist!
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a must-have during the holiday season, combining comforting spices and a delightful chewy texture. These cookies are characterized by their rich molasses flavor and beautiful crackled tops, making them perfect for cookie exchanges or cozy nights at home. The blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg captures the essence of festive baking. Easy to make from scratch, these cookies invite family fun in the kitchen while providing an irresistible treat that everyone will adore. Whether paired with a warm beverage or presented on a dessert platter, these cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer!
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60ml) molasses
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 to 3 minutes).
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat again until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined.
- Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough using cookie scoops.
- Roll each portion into a ball; expect some stickiness.
- Roll each dough ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until cookies have spread out with deep cracks on top but remain soft in the center.
- Allow cooling on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg