Name: Chewy Gingerbread Cookies That Bring Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter (softened for best mixing); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (no substitutes recommended); 1 large Egg (room temperature); 1/2 cup Molasses (unsulphured) (can replace with honey or maple syrup); 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (leavening agent); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (do not omit); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (increase for a more pronounced flavor); 1 tablespoon Dried Ground Ginger (adjust based on preference); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar for Rolling (optional for added sweetness and texture)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread wafting through my kitchen instantly transports me back to the cozy holiday memories of my childhood. There’s something truly special about baking, and these Chewy Gingerbread Cookies capture that magic beautifully. Perfectly nostalgic yet surprisingly simple to make, this recipe brings a festive cheer that even beginner bakers can embrace. With their delightful balance of chewiness and a hint of crunch, they make an irresistible holiday treat that’s sure to gather everyone around the kitchen table. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also freeze well—meaning you can prepare a batch today and savor the smiles long after the last cookie is gone. Ready to fill your home with the spirit of the season? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering gingerbread adventure!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Irresistible aroma: As they bake, the spices fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that beckons loved ones to gather.

Chewy perfection: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between a delightful chewiness and a crunchy exterior, making every bite utterly satisfying.

Holiday classic: A staple for festive gatherings, these Chewy Gingerbread Cookies are sure to win hearts and taste buds alike.

Beginner-friendly: Even novice bakers can whip these up with ease, providing a perfect starting point for anyone looking to introduce holiday baking into their household.

Versatile base: Feel free to customize your cookies with chocolate chips or nuts, or decorate them with royal icing for an extra festive flair! For a delightful twist, why not serve them alongside a batch of Tiramisu Cookies Melt or Lemon Raspberry Cookies?

Make-ahead magic: These cookies freeze beautifully, allowing you to enjoy the holiday spirit without the last-minute baking rush.

Chewy Gingerbread Cookies Ingredients

• Perfect for your holiday baking!

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use softened for best mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a crunchy exterior; no substitutes recommended.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; ensure it is at room temperature for best incorporation.
Molasses (unsulphured) – Contributes depth of flavor and moisture; can replace with honey or maple syrup for a different taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure to the cookies; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, contributing to the cookie’s rise.
Salt – Enhances flavor; balance is important; do not omit.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth; increase for a more pronounced flavor.
Dried Ground Ginger – Key spice for ginger flavor; adjust based on preference; fresh ginger can also be used (approx. 1 tablespoon per teaspoon).

For Rolling

Granulated Sugar for Rolling – Optional for added sweetness and texture.

Enjoy making these delightful Chewy Gingerbread Cookies that will sprinkle your holiday season with joy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This preparation will create a baking environment perfect for your Chewy Gingerbread Cookies, allowing them to rise and develop a delightful texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ¾ cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar. Beat them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the butter, giving the cookies a beautiful, tender structure.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Molasses
Next, add in one large room-temperature egg and ½ cup unsulfured molasses to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well on low speed until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula if necessary. The molasses will add a rich flavor and moisture to your Chewy Gingerbread Cookies, setting the stage for their deliciousness.

Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon dried ground ginger. This step will ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. The aromatic spices will make your kitchen smell delightful and prepare your dough for the perfect flavor profile.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or the mixer on low speed. Combine until just incorporated; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. You want a smooth, slightly sticky dough for your Chewy Gingerbread Cookies, so stop mixing as soon as no dry flour remains.

Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop out dough balls that are slightly smaller than a golf ball. If desired, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar for added sweetness and a touch of crunch. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives your cookies a lovely, sparkly appearance when baked.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place the rolled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2-3 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. This spacing will give each of your Chewy Gingerbread Cookies room to puff up and develop that perfect texture, making them irresistible.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers appear soft. Keep a close eye on them, as you want the cookies to be slightly underbaked for that chewy texture we all love. Once baked, they will have a nice golden color on the edges while remaining soft in the middle.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This resting time is important as it allows them to firm up slightly for easier transfer. After cooling, gently move your Chewy Gingerbread Cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.

Expert Tips for Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

Underbake for Chewiness: Aim for a slight underbake to guarantee that classic chewy texture; this makes all the difference in these Chewy Gingerbread Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: After adding flour, mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing can ruin your chewy delight.
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, don’t hesitate to chill it for 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for optimal mixing and to achieve that perfect dough consistency.
Proper Measurement: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping to avoid packing; accurate measurements lead to superior cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. For even more convenience, you can scoop the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add an extra minute to the baking time; no need to thaw! This method ensures your cookies stay just as delicious, saving you precious time during the busy holiday season while still delivering that warm, spicy aroma that fills your kitchen with cheer.

Chewy Gingerbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste!

Vanilla Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a fragrant and delicious flavor enhancement.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
Extra Spice: Increase the ground ginger by an additional teaspoon for a more robust ginger kick that will warm you from the inside out.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise that complements the spices beautifully.
Fruity Delight: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a tart, chewy contrast that brightens the cookies’ flavor.
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free version that everyone will love.
Iced Elegance: Drizzle royal icing over the cooled cookies for a beautiful and festive touch that adds sweetness and visual appeal.
Maple Infusion: Replace molasses with equal parts maple syrup for a lighter, yet equally delicious flavor profile that celebrates the season.

Explore these variations to make every batch of Chewy Gingerbread Cookies a unique treat for your holiday gatherings. If you’re in the mood for more delicious cookie ideas, check out these Lemon Raspberry Cookies or enjoy a rich, coffee-flavored twist with my Tiramisu Cookies Melt. Happy baking!

Storage Tips for Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their delightful chewiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be enjoyed for up to three months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their soft texture.

Prevent Staling: Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air exposure, which can cause the chewy gingerbread cookies to dry out.

What to Serve with Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

There’s nothing quite like gathering around the warmth of holiday flavors; these delightful treats deserve a memorable accompaniment.

Mulled Cider: Warm spiced apple cider adds a cozy touch, accentuating the ginger and cinnamon notes of the cookies.
Hot Cocoa: Rich, velvety hot cocoa pairs perfectly, enhancing the sweetness of the cookies as you savor each delightful bite.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy cream cheese spread gives a beautiful contrast, turning each ginger cookie into a decadent dessert.
Roasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted almonds or pecans bring a delightful texture that balances the soft chewiness of the cookies. Consider presenting them together in a delicate serving bowl, creating an inviting snack tray.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool flavors of vanilla ice cream are a lovely contrast to the warm spices of gingerbread, making for a comforting dessert combination.
Ginger Tea: This herbal blend highlights the ginger flavor, bringing a soothing warmth perfect for a festive gathering.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or gouda, offers a delightful savory note that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Chocolate Truffles: Rich chocolate truffles make an elegant addition, providing a luxurious dessert experience alongside your gingerbread treats.
Festive Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a fruit salad of seasonal offerings like oranges and cranberries adds a zesty contrast that brightens your dessert table.

Chewy Gingerbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
When selecting ingredients, especially molasses, look for unsulfured varieties, as they offer a smoother flavor. Make sure your butter is softened and not melted, with a creamy texture that’s easy to whip. Fresh spices will create the most robust flavor, so opt for ground ginger and cinnamon that haven’t expired.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your Chewy Gingerbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. I often use a simple plastic container lined with parchment paper to keep them fresh. It helps prevent them from becoming too soft or stale while keeping that delightful chewiness intact.

Can I freeze Chewy Gingerbread Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their soft texture.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading excessively, it may be due to warm dough. Chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape. Also, ensure your butter is just softened and not too warm to prevent excess melting during baking. If the issue persists, you might consider adding a little more flour to the mix next time.

Are these cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
While these Chewy Gingerbread Cookies are vegetarian, they are not suitable for dogs due to the sugar and molasses. Additionally, ensure no one has allergies to key ingredients like eggs or gluten. You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.

Can I substitute any ingredients if I have allergies?
Yes! For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. If egg allergies are a concern, you can use a flaxseed or chia seed egg: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes until it gels, and then add it to your mixture. This way, everyone can enjoy your Chewy Gingerbread Cookies!