Name: Gingerbread Latte Cookies: A Cozy Holiday Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 41 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (No substitutes necessary.); 1 tablespoon Espresso Powder (Can substitute with instant coffee or omit.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (No substitutes necessary.); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Ground nutmeg can be added for variation.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Omit if milder taste is preferred.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Replace with more cinnamon or omit if preferred.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Essential, don't skip.); 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with margarine for dairy-free.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Demerara sugar works similarly if needed.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (No substitutes necessary.); 1/4 cup Cooking Molasses (Light or dark molasses works best.); 1 large Egg (Replace with a flax egg for vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla provides the best flavor.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Can substitute with flavored confectioner's sugar mix.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Any unsweetened milk works great.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Coats cookie balls for sweetness and crunch.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with warm spices can transform any kitchen into a cozy retreat, especially during the bustling holiday season. Enter my delightful Chewy Gingerbread Latte Cookies—where soft and chewy gingerbread meets the rich, delightful notes of espresso. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a magical fusion that adds a fun twist to your holiday baking repertoire. With a crunchy sugar coating and a sweet icing drizzle, they’re perfect for impressing guests or enjoying solo with a steaming cup of tea. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories. Ready to create something truly special? Let’s dive into this joyous recipe!

Why Are Gingerbread Latte Cookies Special?

Irresistible Flavor Combo: These cookies uniquely blend spiced gingerbread with rich espresso, creating a holiday treat everyone will adore.

Quick and Easy: You’ll love that these cookies come together in minutes, allowing more time for holiday fun rather than long kitchen hours.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfectly chewy and topped with a sweet icing drizzle, they’re bound to be the star of your cookie platter at any festive gathering.

Versatile Serving Opportunities: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or pair them with your morning coffee for a delightful pick-me-up.

If you’re looking for more delicious cookie recipes to mix into your celebrations, try my [Lemon Raspberry Cookies](https://chefpatialrecipes.com/lemon-raspberry cookies) or indulge in some Chocolate Chip Cookies as well!

Gingerbread Latte Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful gingerbread latte cookies with the following must-haves!

For the Cookie Base

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for rising; no substitutes necessary.
Espresso Powder – Enhances the coffee flavor; can be substituted with instant coffee or omitted for a non-coffee flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; no substitutes necessary.
Ground Ginger – Provides that characteristic ginger kick; ground nutmeg can be added for variation.
Ground Cloves – Complements other spices and deepens flavor; omit if you prefer milder tastes.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds a fragrant note; replace with more cinnamon or omit if preferred.
Salt – Intensifies and balances flavors; essential, so don’t skip it.

For the Wet Ingredients

Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich texture; can substitute with margarine for dairy-free options.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and sweetness; demerara sugar works similarly if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes a crispy exterior; no substitutes necessary.
Cooking Molasses – Provides wonderful moisture and flavor; light or dark molasses works, but blackstrap may be too bitter.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; pure vanilla provides the best taste.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a smooth texture for icing; can be substituted with a flavored confectioner’s sugar mix.
Milk (dairy or non-dairy) – Used to achieve icing consistency; any unsweetened milk works great as a substitute.

For the Roll

Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Coats the cookie balls for sweetness and crunch; no substitutes necessary.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s whisk some holiday cheer into your kitchen with these scrumptious gingerbread latte cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven
Begin your journey to making delicious Gingerbread Latte Cookies by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick. This will help them bake evenly and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, espresso powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This step is essential as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices, ensuring robust flavor and the perfect chewy texture for your cookies. Set this dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with a hand mixer until creamy and light in color. Gradually add in the granulated and brown sugars, continuing to mix until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. This creaming process is crucial for creating a light and tender texture in your Gingerbread Latte Cookies.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Gently mix in the molasses, large egg, and vanilla extract into the creamy butter-sugar mixture. Blend until all the ingredients are well incorporated and smooth. This step adds rich flavor and moisture, connecting the elements of your chewy Gingerbread Latte Cookies into a delightful dough.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture from Step 2 to the wet ingredients in small batches, mixing gently after each addition. Stir just until everything is combined—take care not to overmix, as this can affect the chewiness of your cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, embodying the comforting essence of gingerbread.

Step 6: Scoop and Chill
Using a cookie scooper or spoon, portion out the dough into generous balls and place them on a plate. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for approximately 15 minutes. This chilling step helps solidify the fats and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, allowing for that perfect chewy texture.

Step 7: Roll in Sugar
Once chilled, take the cookie balls and roll them in granulated sugar to generously coat them. This will create a delightful sweet crunch on the outside of your Gingerbread Latte Cookies. Place the sugar-coated balls onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between them for spreading as they bake.

Step 8: Bake
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they appear puffy but soft in the center. Gently bang the baking sheet against the counter to create those lovely cracks on top—this classic look adds charm to your festive cookies.

Step 9: Cool
After baking, allow the Gingerbread Latte Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes moving them easier. Once slightly cooled, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the edges to crisp up just right while the centers stay chewy.

Step 10: Prepare Icing
In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Once your cookies are fully cooled, drizzle the icing over the top of each cookie for a sweet finishing touch that complements the gingerbread flavor beautifully. Enjoy your delightful creations!

What to Serve with Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Indulge in the festive spirit by pairing these chewy delights with delicious accompaniments that elevate your holiday experience.

Rich Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa adds cozy vibes, enhancing the comforting flavors of spiced gingerbread with a chocolatey twist. Perfect for chilly evenings!
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, sweet creaminess of ice cream beautifully balances the spiced cookie, creating a dreamy contrast that will have you reaching for seconds.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: Pairing your cookies with a hot cup of coffee brings out the espresso notes, making each bite and sip a delightful moment of warmth and cheer.
Spiced Tea: A fragrant spiced tea not only complements the ginger in the cookies but also enhances the cozy, aromatic experience of the holiday season.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Adding a sweet and buttery caramel drizzle over your cookies takes them to the next level. The rich flavor pairs perfectly with the spices, creating an irresistible treat.
Maple Glazed Nuts: Crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty, glazed nuts bring a delightful texture and flavor contrast that wonderfully complements the chewy cookie.
Christmas Fruitcake: The rich, fruity flavors of a classic fruitcake can enhance the holiday celebration, bringing an element of nostalgia to the cookie platter.
Mulled Wine: This spiced, warming drink not only matches the flavors of the cookies but also creates a festive atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings.
Gingerbread Latte: For an ultimate gingerbread experience, sip on a gingerbread latte while enjoying the cookies—combining flavors to create a cozy, indulgent moment.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve freshness.

Fridge: While not necessary, you can store cookies in the fridge for up to 7 days. Just make sure they are sealed well to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and use a zip-top bag for extra protection.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the dough in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. If cookies are frozen, bake from frozen for 1-2 extra minutes until warmed through.

Variations & Substitutions for Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Feel free to get creative and tailor these cookies to your taste—there’s so much fun to be had!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with a non-dairy margarine for a delicious dairy-free version. You can still enjoy that rich texture without any dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for those who follow a gluten-free diet. You won’t compromise on flavor or texture!
Spice it Up: Swap the espresso powder for an extra teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon for a more traditional gingerbread cookie experience. This adds a lovely warmth and contrast!
Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and a nutty flavor. This little twist can elevate your cookies to new heights.
Icing Variations: For an added flavor boost, mix a pinch of spice or a splash of coffee into your icing. A dash of cinnamon will bring warmth and an aromatic twist!
Vegan Version: Replace the large egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a fabulous vegan version of these cookies. The texture will remain delightful!
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a decadent touch by drizzling melted chocolate over your cooled cookies. It pairs well and gives them an irresistible finish.
Zesty Lemon Icing: For a refreshing twist, mix lemon juice into your icing instead of milk. It adds a bright, zesty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the spices in your cookies.

Incorporating these variations can add excitement to your baking adventures! If you’re curious about other delightful cookie recipes, check out my Tiramisu Cookies Melt or indulge in some Lemon Raspberry Cookies for even more sweetness this season!

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Latte Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to add a festive touch to their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients together and then chilling it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can roll the dough in sugar and refrigerate the cookie balls up to 3 days to maintain their divine texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and proceed with baking them straight from the fridge—no thawing needed! This will ensure you still achieve those perfectly chewy, delicious cookies with minimal effort on busy days. Enjoy the convenience of meal prep while still treating your loved ones to these delightful Gingerbread Latte Cookies!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Cream Thoroughly: Cream the butter until it’s pale and fluffy—this creates a light, airy texture that’s essential for chewy gingerbread cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It keeps the dough from spreading too much during baking, ensuring those perfect chewy centers.
Monitor Baking Time: Watch the cookies closely; they should be puffy but soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture instead of the intended chewy goodness.
Icing Consistency: Ensure your icing is pourable but not too runny. Adjust the milk amount as needed, and drizzle it over the cookies after they have completely cooled.
Storage Tips: Store your gingerbread latte cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can last up to five days at room temperature.
Get Creative: Try incorporating other spices or a sprinkle of cinnamon in the icing for an extra festive touch to your gingerbread latte cookies!

Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe FAQs

How can I select the best ingredients for Gingerbread Latte Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, opt for fresh spices to ensure maximum flavor. For the best butter, look for unsalted butter with a creamy texture and slight yellow color. Your molasses should be thick and dark; avoid any with an off smell, as that can indicate it’s past its prime. For egg freshness, you want large eggs; a simple trick is to check the sell-by date on the carton and select the freshest option.

What’s the best way to store Gingerbread Latte Cookies?
The more the merrier! You can keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To extend their freshness, place a slice of bread in the container. This will help to maintain the moisture level, keeping your cookies soft and chewy. Avoid crushing them by placing parchment paper between layers, especially if you have multiple flavors.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Latte Cookies?
Definitely! For optimal freezing, wrap unbaked cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a zip-top freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. This can last for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, and bake as per the instructions—just add an extra minute or two if baking straight from the freezer!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
No worries! If your cookies spread excessively, try chilling the dough for a longer period—at least 30 minutes—before rolling and baking. Make sure your baking sheet is cold when you place the cookie dough on it. If needed, you can also check to see if the butter was too warm when mixed; it should be soft but not melted.

Are Gingerbread Latte Cookies safe for pets?
Very! While the spices in gingerbread are generally safe in moderation, it’s best to keep your cookies away from pets as the sugar and other ingredients could lead to digestive issues. Be cautious with chocolates or nuts in your other baked goods, as those can be harmful to animals. Always consult your vet for specific dietary questions related to your furry friends.

Can I make Gingerbread Latte Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture. You might also want to add a pinch more salt to enhance flavor. Enjoy the same delightful taste and chewy texture without the gluten!