Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies Recipe

Jump to Recipe

When it comes to holiday baking, few treats are as beloved as Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies. These cookies are perfect for festive occasions, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply because you crave a cozy treat, these gingerbread cookies are guaranteed to bring joy. This recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Let’s dive into how you can create the softest, chewiest gingerbread cookies that will impress everyone who tries them.

Perfectly Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies stand out because of their amazing texture. Unlike some gingerbread cookies that can turn out hard and crunchy, this recipe ensures that your cookies stay soft and chewy with every bite. The secret lies in the perfect balance of ingredients, including brown sugar and molasses, which contribute to the soft and rich texture. Plus, the spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves give these cookies a warm, comforting flavor that’s just perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients for Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

To make these cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are easy to find in most kitchens. Here’s what you will need:

• All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the dough and gives structure to the cookies.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become soft and airy.
• Ground ginger: Adds that signature spicy warmth to the cookies.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings a comforting, sweet-spicy flavor.
• Ground cloves: Offers an aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the spices.
• Unsalted butter: Gives the cookies a rich, tender texture.
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to keep the cookies soft.
• Molasses: Provides the distinctive, deep flavor and moisture for chewy cookies.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to texture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the flavor.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

If you’re missing one or two ingredients or want to cater to different dietary needs, here are some great substitutions you can make:

• Whole wheat flour: Use in place of all-purpose flour for a slightly healthier option.
• Coconut oil or vegetable oil: Can replace butter for a dairy-free version.
• Maple syrup or honey: Can be used instead of molasses, though the flavor will change slightly.
• Egg replacer: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Follow these easy steps to bake your own batch of Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a gingerbread man cookie cutter (or any shape you prefer) to cut out the cookies.

Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Tricks for Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overbake the cookies. To maintain that soft and chewy texture, keep a close eye on them as they bake. They should be soft in the center but firm around the edges when they’re done.
• If you prefer softer cookies, remove them from the oven slightly earlier than the suggested time.
• If you want your cookies to keep their shape, make sure the dough is chilled before rolling it out and cutting out the shapes.
• For extra flavor, you can add a little bit of ground nutmeg or allspice to the spice mixture.
• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

These Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are delicious on their own, but you can also try some fun variations and pairings to make them even more exciting:

• Glaze or Frosting: Top your gingerbread men with a simple royal icing or a sweet glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Dip them in chocolate: Melt some semi-sweet or white chocolate and dip the cookies for a festive twist.
• Pair with a warm drink: These cookies are perfect with a hot cup of cocoa, spiced chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk.
• Make a gluten-free version: Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.

These gingerbread men are also perfect for gift-giving. Simply wrap them in a decorative bag or box and share them with family and friends.

Why Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies Are a Holiday Favorite

Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies have long been a favorite during the holiday season. Their rich, spiced flavor is a comforting treat on cold winter days, and the fun, festive shapes make them a hit at holiday parties and gatherings. Whether you’re decorating them with icing or enjoying them plain, these cookies bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth to every bite. They also make a fantastic homemade gift, perfect for spreading holiday cheer.

Conclusion:

Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are the perfect treat for the holiday season, offering a delicious blend of spices and a soft, chewy texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or just to enjoy during the winter months, these cookies are sure to please every palate. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and endless possibilities for decoration, this recipe ensures a fun and rewarding baking experience. So, get your mixing bowls ready, and treat your loved ones to a batch of these mouthwatering gingerbread men cookies today!

FAQs About Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

1. Why are my gingerbread cookies not soft?

If your gingerbread cookies aren’t soft, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To ensure a soft texture, avoid baking them too long — they should be slightly soft in the center when you pull them out. Additionally, make sure you measure your flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make the cookies dry.

2. Can I freeze Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Allow the baked cookies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

3. How do I get my gingerbread cookies to keep their shape?

To keep your gingerbread men cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensure that your dough is chilled before rolling it out. This will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Also, be sure to not overwork the dough, as this can cause the cookies to spread more than desired.

More Relevant Recipes

Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Anna
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are the perfect holiday treat with their warm spices and soft texture. Ideal for baking with family or giving as gifts, these gingerbread cookies bring a festive touch to any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

In a large bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough forms.

If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Do not overbake the cookies to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

If you prefer a spicier flavor, add more ginger or cinnamon.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
For a fun decoration, pipe royal icing or sprinkles onto the cooled cookies.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American