Name: Irresistibly Soft Gingerbread Men Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 68 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (Melted); 1 cup Brown sugar (Packed); 1/2 cup Molasses (Unsulfured); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg (Optional); 1/2 teaspoon Ground cloves (Can be substituted with allspice); 1 large Egg (Room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Pure preferred); 1 teaspoon Baking soda; 3 1/2 cups All-purpose flour (Gluten-free option available); 2 cups Powdered sugar (Sifted); Milk to taste Milk (Whole or reduced-fat); Decorative candies/sprinkles (For decoration)

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A waft of warm spices fills the air, transporting me straight to my childhood kitchen, where baking Gingerbread Men Cookies was a magical ritual. These Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are not just a tasty treat; they’re an inviting hug in cookie form, perfect for the holiday festivities. With their rich molasses flavor and delightful spices, they prove to be incredibly simple to whip up—requiring just one bowl and less than an hour from start to finish! Whether you’re gathering around the table with kids or impressing friends with your baking prowess, these cookies make for a fantastic holiday activity. Plus, they’re a fun canvas for decorating, allowing each cookie to reflect your creative spirit. Are you ready to bring the sweet, nostalgic essence of homemade gingerbread into your home?

Why Are Gingerbread Men Cookies So Special?

Nostalgic Charm: Every bite of these gingerbread cookies transports you back to happier holiday memories. The rich flavor of molasses mixed with spices creates a cozy aroma that fills your home.

Easy & Fun: This recipe is perfect for all skill levels! With just one bowl and under an hour, you can whip up a delightful batch that’s sure to impress.

Versatile Shapes: Whether traditional men or other festive shapes, you can easily adapt this recipe with cookie cutters to match your holiday spirit.

Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love decorating these cookies, making them a hit at parties and gatherings. Serve them with milk or hot cocoa for an extra warm touch!

For more sweet treats, check out these Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a bright twist and Chocolate Chip Cookies for classic indulgence. Your holiday baking is about to get a major upgrade!

Gingerbread Men Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bring the holiday spirit to your kitchen with these delightful Gingerbread Men Cookies!

For the Batter

Unsalted butter – Provides moisture and richness; if needed, margarine can be used.
Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture for a chewy texture; dark brown sugar deepens the flavor.
Molasses – Essential for the gingerbread taste; it’s irreplaceable for achieving that rich flavor.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor—don’t leave it out!
Ground cinnamon – Gives warmth and spice; a cornerstone of gingerbread flavor.
Ground ginger – Offers the traditional ginger taste; fresh ginger can add a sharper kick.
Nutmeg – Complements the spice blend well; can be omitted if unavailable.
Cloves – Introduces complexity; feel free to use allspice as a swap.
Egg – Binds the dough; using room temperature eggs helps with mixture integration.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for best taste.
Baking soda – Functions as a leavening agent; crucial for a slight rise in the dough.
All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.

For the Frosting

Powdered sugar – The base for frosting; sift it for a smooth consistency.
Milk – Used to thin the frosting; both whole or reduced-fat work well.
Decorative candies/sprinkles – Optional for a festive touch; use your favorites for decoration.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Men Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, melt ¾ cup of unsalted butter and stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth. The mixture should have a glossy appearance and a rich aroma. This will form the flavorful base of your Gingerbread Men Cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate the Egg and Spices
Add 1 large room-temperature egg to the butter mixture, then mix in ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir until the egg is fully integrated and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, which should now have a warm, inviting scent.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda and Flour
Gradually incorporate 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour into the mixture. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir until a dough starts to form. If the dough feels too sticky, add a dusting of flour. The dough should be pliable and come away from the sides of the bowl cleanly.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. Chilling the dough will help solidify the butter, making it easier to roll out later while enhancing the flavors of your Gingerbread Men Cookies.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they’re ready for the cookies once they’re cut out. This step is crucial for a perfect baking surface that will prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough
Once chilled, take one half of the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about ¼ inch. Use your favorite cookie cutter shapes, such as gingerbread men or festive stars, to cut out cookies. Place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges are just slightly browned. Keep an eye on them, as you want them soft in the center for that chewy texture. Remove from the oven and let them cool on wire racks, allowing the aroma of your Gingerbread Men Cookies to fill the kitchen.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting and Decorate
In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar and enough milk to achieve a smooth, thick frosting consistency. Once the cookies are fully cooled, use a piping bag or a simple spatula to frost the cookies. Get creative and add decorative candies or sprinkles before the frosting sets to give your Gingerbread Men Cookies a festive touch.

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Men Cookies

Chewy Perfection: Underbake slightly (6-7 minutes) for a delightful chewy texture instead of a crisp cookie.

Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix your dough. This can lead to tougher cookies; mix just until combined for soft results.

Rolling Technique: Use a floured surface when rolling out the dough to prevent it from sticking, ensuring beautiful cut-out shapes.

Chill for Success: Chilling the dough is crucial for easy rolling and cutting. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

Fresh Flour: Always measure your all-purpose flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. This prevents adding too much flour, which can affect texture.

These gingerbread men cookies will be the star of your holiday baking!

What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Imagine a cozy gathering with friends or family, where the sweet aroma of these delightful cookies creates a warm ambiance.

Rich Hot Cocoa: Perfectly complements the spices in the cookies, adding a creamy richness that balances the sweetness. Sip while savoring a cookie for a heavenly combination.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy, this fluffy topping adds a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies. Drizzle some over your hot cocoa for an indulgent treat.
Candied Pecans: These crunchy, sweet nuts enhance the cookie experience, offering a delicious, nutty flavor with each bite. They make a lovely addition to your dessert platter.
Fruit Compote: A dollop of spiced apple or cranberry compote brings a tartness that cuts through the cookie’s sweetness, brightening the dessert table beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess contrasts enticingly with warm cookies, creating an irresistible dessert moment. Top your cookie with a scoop for a classic treat!
Eggnog: This festive drink added to your cookie platter brings in holiday cheer—its rich, spiced flavor harmonizes wonderfully with the warm notes of the cookies.
Cheese Board: Incorporate some soft cheeses for a savory-sweet pairing. The creamy texture provides a delightful balance, making your cookie experience even more memorable.
Gingerbread Latte: Enhance your festive spirit with this spiced coffee drink, playing off the cookie’s flavors perfectly. It’s a great way to elevate your cozy treat time.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also makes it easier to roll out when you’re ready to bake. If you’re looking to extend storage even further, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator, roll it out, cut your shapes, bake, and decorate as desired. Your freshly baked cookies will be just as delicious, ensuring a sweet treat whenever you need it!

Gingerbread Men Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Gingerbread Men Cookies to create delightful twists that suit your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy soft cookies without gluten.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Swap decorative candies for chocolate chips for a decadent, delightful surprise in every bite.
Spicy Gingerbread: Increase ground ginger and cinnamon proportions for a bolder, spicier flavor profile.
Royal Icing: Use royal icing instead of powdered sugar frosting for a more festive and sturdy cookie decoration.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to add a satisfying crunch to your chewy cookies.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for a delicious dairy-free version.
Flavor Infusion: Add a touch of orange zest or almond extract to the dough for a unique fragrance and flavor burst.
Alternative Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Whichever variation you choose, these delightful changes will make your cookies shine! And if you’re looking for other tasty alternatives, why not try my tangy Lemon Raspberry Cookies or classic Chocolate Chip Cookies? Your baking adventures await!

Storage Tips for Gingerbread Men Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked Gingerbread Men Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps them soft and flavorful.

Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferred to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

Dough: Prepared dough can be wrapped tightly in plastic and stored in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it for later use—simply thaw in the fridge before rolling out.

Gingerbread Men Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of molasses should I use for Gingerbread Men Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for unsulfured molasses, as it has a rich sweetness ideal for gingerbread cookies. You can also use dark molasses for a deeper flavor profile, but avoid blackstrap molasses as it can be too bitter.

How should I store my Gingerbread Men Cookies?
Store your baked Gingerbread Men Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps them soft and flavorful. If you live in a warmer climate, the fridge is a great option for maintaining freshness for up to a week!

Can I freeze Gingerbread Men Cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze unfrosted cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature before frosting and decorating!

What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels sticky while mixing, don’t worry! Gradually add flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s workable and no longer adheres to your hands. Additionally, if possible, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help firm it up, making it easier to roll out.

Are Gingerbread Men Cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets as they contain ingredients like chocolate when decorated, which can be toxic to them. Always ensure your baked goods are stored out of reach from your furry friends to keep them safe!