Name: Soft Gingerbread Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (softened at room temperature); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar; ¾ cup Brown Sugar; 1 large Egg; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (or Vanilla Bean Paste); ½ cup Molasses; 3½ cups All-Purpose Flour (do not over-mix); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon; 1 tablespoon Ground Ginger (fresh ginger can be used); ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon Ground Cloves; 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); ½ cup Powdered Sugar; ¼ cup Butter (softened); ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; Milk (for adjusting consistency)

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As the holiday season approaches, the warm scent of spices wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy family gatherings full of laughter and joy. This year, I’m excited to share my Soft Gingerbread Cookies recipe—a delightful twist on a classic that’s both soft and chewy. Not only do these cookies evoke the comforting flavors of the season, but they remain tender for days, making them an ideal treat to share (or savor all by yourself). And let’s not forget the luscious cream cheese frosting that takes these holiday goodies over the top! So, are you ready to bring a little festive magic to your kitchen?

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Soft and Chewy: These Soft Gingerbread Cookies boast a melt-in-your-mouth quality that will have everyone reaching for more.

Warm Spices: Infused with classic spices like cinnamon and ginger, each bite is a comforting hug that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season.

Customizable Toppings: Top with rich cream cheese frosting, festive sprinkles, or even a drizzle of chocolate for an easy upgrade—there’s no wrong way to make them shine!

Make-Ahead Magic: These cookies stay fresh for days and can even be frozen, making them a convenient option for busy holiday schedules.

Family Favorite: Whether at gatherings or cozy nights in, they’re sure to become a beloved treat for both family and friends alike. Want another delicious cookie recipe? Check out my Chocolate Chip Cookies for a twist on the classic!

Soft Gingerbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s delightful texture.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and chewiness, crucial for those irresistible soft cookies.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients and provides essential moisture for a tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste – Infuses a sweet aroma; almond extract can be a fun alternative.
• Molasses – Delivers a deep, earthy flavor and moisture; substituting may alter texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of your cookies; be cautious not to over-mix to keep them soft.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for that perfect soft and chewy texture.
• Baking Powder – Ensures your cookies rise nicely, aiding in the overall fluffiness.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a quintessential holiday aroma.
• Ground Ginger – Key for bringing that classic gingerbread flavor; fresh ginger can also be used for a twist.
• Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the warm spices, making your cookies festive.
• Ground Cloves – Just a hint gives these cookies a unique, flavorful kick.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The heart of the frosting, lending a rich and creamy texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; it’s critical for achieving that nice, smooth finish.
• Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting; add more or less based on your preference.

These darling Soft Gingerbread Cookies are not just festive in flavor, but they also make your kitchen smell like a holiday dream!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Gingerbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking. Set aside your prepared sheets as we move on to the cookie dough preparation.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars Together
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened salted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar. With an electric mixer, beat these ingredients on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, creating a tender texture for your soft gingerbread cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 large egg, ½ cup of molasses, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until everything is combined and smooth, which should take about 1 minute. The rich, dark molasses will infuse your cookies with a delicious flavor, while the egg helps bind the ingredients together perfectly.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and your warm spices: 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures an even distribution of spices, enhancing the flavor of your soft gingerbread cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the large bowl, mixing on low speed. Stop mixing once just combined, avoiding over-mixing to keep your cookies soft. This is where the magic happens as the dough begins to come together, creating the perfect texture for your festive gingerbread cookies.

Step 6: Portion the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You should aim for rounded mounds that will spread slightly as they bake. This method will give you uniform cookies that are easy to frost and serve, creating delightful soft gingerbread cookies.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. The cookies should look slightly puffed and set at the edges while staying soft in the center. Watch for the edges to turn a light golden color as a sign they are perfectly baked for that chewy, soft texture.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. This will help them firm up a bit before transferring to a wire rack. After a few moments, gently transfer the cookies to the rack and let them cool completely, which is essential before applying frosting.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of powdered sugar, ¼ cup of softened butter, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with a splash of milk if necessary. This luscious cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the moist gingerbread cookies.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate
Once your soft gingerbread cookies are completely cooled, generously frost each cookie with the cream cheese frosting. If you like, add festive sprinkles or toppings to make them even more delightful. These cookies are now ready to brighten up your holiday celebrations, providing lovely warmth and sweetness with every bite!

What to Serve with Soft Gingerbread Cookies

As you delight in these soft, spiced cookies, consider enhancing your holiday spread with delightful pairings that evoke cozy, seasonal vibes.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, velvety taste of hot cocoa perfectly complements the warm spices in soft gingerbread cookies, creating a nostalgic winter experience.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite offers a delightful caffeine boost; its notes of pumpkin and spice harmonize beautifully with the gingerbread flavors.
Creamy Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a luscious, creamy contrast to these tender cookies, making each bite even more indulgent.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with citrus and berries provides a light, bright balance to the rich flavors of the cookies, bringing a vibrant touch to your dessert table.
Cheese Platter: Incorporating aged cheddar or creamy brie can elevate your holiday gathering; the savory elements pair well with sweet and spiced cookies.
Mulled Wine: A glass of warm mulled wine infused with spices enhances the festive atmosphere and complements the winter spices in your gingerbread cookies.
Ginger Tea: Sipping on ginger tea offers a soothing warmth that echoes the cookie’s flavors, making it a lovely drink option for cozy evenings.
Holiday Spritz Cookies: For a cookie platter, consider adding colorful spritz cookies; their buttery sweetness and festive colors enhance the holiday spirit alongside your soft gingerbread cookies.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel adds an indulgent sweetness that pairs deliciously with the spiced gingerbread, enhancing every bite.

Expert Tips for Soft Gingerbread Cookies

Perfect Creaming: Beat the butter and sugars thoroughly until light and fluffy. This step is vital for achieving the ideal texture in your soft gingerbread cookies.
Measure Flour Carefully: Spoon and level the flour rather than scooping directly. This avoids adding too much flour, which can make cookies dense instead of soft.
Mind the Mixing: Combine wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!
Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden at the edges but soft in the center to maintain chewiness.
Storage Tip: Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft. If they harden, you can lightly microwave them, wrapped in a damp paper towel, for a few seconds.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with spices or add-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, but ensure they complement the warm gingerbread flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Soft Gingerbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain their softness and chewiness.

Fridge: If you’d like to keep them slightly longer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week, but this may affect their texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To revive frozen soft gingerbread cookies, let them thaw at room temperature or use a microwave for 10-15 seconds, wrapped in a damp paper towel for optimal softness.

Soft Gingerbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic soft gingerbread cookies and make them your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly option.
For those with lactose intolerance, this swap allows everyone to enjoy the festive flavors without compromise!
Spice Punch: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom along with the other spices for a unique, vibrant flavor. Cardamom brings a delightful zing that elevates the holiday essence.
Nutty Delight: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch. Nuts add a lovely texture and depth, creating a cozy bite alongside the soft cookie base.
Chocolate Lovers: Toss in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a rich, unexpected twist. The melted chocolate with every bite creates a luscious harmony with the gingerbread spices.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of freshly grated orange or lemon zest to brighten up the flavors. This zesty addition perfectly complements the warm spices and offers a refreshing contrast.
Pumpkin Spice: Include 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree within the dough for a soft gingerbread pumpkin cookie. With pumpkin’s natural moisture and spice blend, this variation creates a soft, chewy delight.
Frost with Flair: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice. It offers a bright, tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the warm spice.

If you’re in the mood for a different cookie experience, don’t forget to check out my Lemon Raspberry Cookies or try out the rich Tiramisu Cookies Melt, both of which will surely impress your loved ones!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate; this helps the flavors deepen while keeping the dough fresh. The cookies themselves can also be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature, or frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting, and they’ll taste just as delicious as if they were freshly made!

Soft Gingerbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right molasses for this recipe?
When it comes to molasses, I highly recommend choosing unsulfured molasses for the best flavor in your Soft Gingerbread Cookies. It’s sweeter and has a cleaner taste, perfect for baking. Look for a dark variety, which will give richness without overpowering the spices. Avoid sulfured molasses, as it can impart an undesirable flavor.

What’s the best way to store these cookies to keep them soft?
To keep your Soft Gingerbread Cookies tender, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you feel they’re beginning to dry out, place a piece of bread in the container; it will release moisture, helping to keep the cookies soft! Just be sure to replace the bread if it hardens.

Can I freeze Soft Gingerbread Cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Soft Gingerbread Cookies, first lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them freeze for about 1-2 hours until they’re solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

What should I do if my cookies come out too hard?
If your cookies have turned out harder than expected, don’t worry! You can revive them by placing a damp paper towel in the container and microwaving them for 10-15 seconds. This softens the cookies beautifully. To avoid hard cookies in the future, double-check your ingredient measurements and baking time, ensuring you don’t overbake.

Can pets eat these cookies? Are there any allergens I should be aware of?
While Soft Gingerbread Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, they contain ingredients like butter, sugar, and spices that aren’t suitable for pets, particularly dogs. Be cautious with common allergens like gluten in the flour and eggs if you’re serving these to people with dietary restrictions or food allergies. Always inform guests if any allergenic ingredients are present!