Name: Gingerbread NYC Cookies with Gooey White Chocolate Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 59 min
Ingredients: 125 g Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and texture; can use dairy-free for vegan.); 175 g Dark Brown Soft Sugar (Provides sweetness and moisture.); 1 medium Egg (Binds ingredients together; can use flax egg for egg-free.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional for extra flavor.); 280 g Plain Flour (Foundation for cookies; adjust if using self-raising flour.); 1.5 tsp Ground Ginger (Star spice for warming flavor.); 0.5 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Enhances warmth and complements ginger.); 0.5 tsp Ground Nutmeg (Adds subtle nuttiness; optional.); 1.5 tsp Baking Powder (Essential for rising.); 0.5 tsp Bicarbonate of Soda (Boosts leavening.); 0.5 tsp Sea Salt (Balances sweetness.); 300 g White Chocolate Chips (Provides melty sweetness; dark chocolate is an alternative.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The aroma of spices wafted through my kitchen as I pulled a tray of freshly baked Gingerbread NYC Cookies from the oven. This warm, inviting scent is the epitome of the festive season! Not only are these cookies a delightful blend of ginger and gooey white chocolate, but they also bring a fun twist to traditional gingerbread. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a holiday party or simply looking to indulge in some comforting winter baking, these cookies are incredibly easy to prepare and will surely satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Soft and chewy, they melt beautifully in your mouth, creating an unforgettable experience. So, why not get ready to whip up a batch? Your taste buds will thank you! What special moments will you create while baking these indulgent treats?

Why Are Gingerbread NYC Cookies Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these cookies combines the warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, paired perfectly with gooey white chocolate, offering a unique twist on traditional treats.

Festive Fun: These cookies are not just delicious; they’re a delightful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings, promising smiles from friends and family alike.

Easy to Make: The straightforward recipe requires minimal time and effort, making it a fun activity for both experienced bakers and beginners.

Versatile Variations: Feeling adventurous? You can easily swap the white chocolate for dark or add nuts for extra crunch, catering to various tastes.

Perfect for Gifting: Pack them up beautifully in a box, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that spread joy during the holiday season.

Try pairing these cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa for an ultimate cozy experience that will make your festive moments even more special!

Gingerbread NYC Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter (125g) – Adds richness and a lovely texture; dairy-free butter can make it vegan.
Dark Brown Soft Sugar (175g) – Provides sweetness and moisture, enhancing chewiness; you can also use light brown sugar.
Medium Egg (1) – Binds everything together and adds moisture; opt for a flax egg for an egg-free version.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp, optional) – Infuses depth of flavor but can be skipped if you prefer a simpler taste.
Plain Flour (280g) – The foundation for the cookies; substituting with self-raising flour requires omitting the baking powder.
Ground Ginger (1.5 tsp) – The star spice, bringing a warm, zesty kick to your gingerbread NYC cookies.
Ground Cinnamon (0.5 tsp) – Enhances the warm flavors and complements the ginger beautifully.
Ground Nutmeg (0.5 tsp) – Adds a subtle nutty flavor; leave it out if you’d like a cleaner taste.
Baking Powder (1.5 tsp) – Essential for that delightful rise in your cookies.
Bicarbonate of Soda (0.5 tsp) – Boosts leavening and creates that perfect cookie texture.
Sea Salt (0.5 tsp) – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in your cookies.
White Chocolate Chips (300g) – Delivers melty pockets of sweetness; dark chocolate or dried fruits are great alternatives for a twist.

Indulge in the magic of Gingerbread NYC Cookies this holiday season and delight your senses with every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread NYC Cookies

Step 1: Cream Together
Begin by softening 125g of unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or standing mixer to beat the butter and 175g of dark brown soft sugar together for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is creamy and fluffy, appearing light in color. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful texture in your Gingerbread NYC Cookies.

Step 2: Mix in Egg and Vanilla
Crack one medium egg into the bowl, adding 1 teaspoon of optional vanilla extract for added flavor. Beat the mixture on medium speed until well combined, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The batter should be smooth with no visible egg streaks. This perfectly blended mixture sets the base for your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 280g of plain flour, 1.5 teaspoons of ground ginger, 0.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 0.5 teaspoons of ground nutmeg, 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, 0.5 teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda, and 0.5 teaspoons of sea salt. Gradually stir these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring everything is fully incorporated to form a soft cookie dough. This step typically takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Once your dough is ready, gently fold in 300g of white chocolate chips using a spatula to ensure they are evenly distributed without overworking the dough. The cookie dough should now appear studded with delicious chocolate. This final stir creates those gooey spots of sweetness you’ll love in your Gingerbread NYC Cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Weigh and roll the cookie dough into 120g balls, placing them onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap or parchment and chill in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for 1 hour. Chilling is essential for the cookies to hold their shape during baking, so don’t skip this step!

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While your cookie dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 180°C (or 200°C if using a conventional oven) for at least 10 minutes. This ensures that your Gingerbread NYC Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden exterior.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Once the cookies are chilled, place four dough balls per lined baking tray to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes until the edges are set and the centers are just slightly soft. You’ll notice a lovely aroma filling your kitchen as they bake, signaling that they are ready to be taken out.

Step 8: Cool Down
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray for about 30 minutes. They will continue to bake slightly from residual heat while cooling down. This crucial step results in a perfectly chewy texture as they firm up and settle.

Step 9: Enjoy
Once cooled, dig into your warm, gooey Gingerbread NYC Cookies! The combination of warm spices and melty white chocolate chips creates a deliciously inviting treat. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, these cookies are your new favorite winter indulgence.

Gingerbread NYC Cookies: Customization Options

Want to add your personal touch to these delightful cookies? Let’s explore some delicious ways to customize and elevate your baking experience!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil to create a vegan version of these tasty treats. They will be just as gooey and delicious!
Sweetness Swap: Replace dark brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option, giving a unique flavor twist. It’s a subtle change, adding depth without compromising the cookie’s overall flavor.
Flour Alternatives: Swap plain flour with almond flour to make gluten-free Gingerbread NYC Cookies, creating nutty, moist cookies that everyone will love. Just be mindful of the texture differences!
Flavor Boost: Add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of maple syrup for a richer flavor profile that enhances the warm spices beautifully. Your cookies will taste like a holiday hug!
Textured Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch, making your cookies more satisfying. The combination of gooey chocolate and crunchy nuts makes for a delightful contrast!
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of ground ginger or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who like a little heat; this unexpected twist will tingle your taste buds!
Fruity Surprise: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries along with the white chocolate chips for a chewy and fruity addition, perfect for holiday gatherings. These colorful flecks will brighten your cookie batch!
Chunky & Chewy: Want bigger cookies? Use 90g for each dough ball to create hefty, cookie-shop-style treats that are perfectly chewy and utterly satisfying. Who can resist a giant cookie?

And if you’re intrigued by other cookie variations, check out my Tiramisu Cookies Melt for an indulgent twist or try delightful Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a refreshing change of pace! Enjoy your baking journey!

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread NYC Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. Simply form the dough into balls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them until you’re ready to bake. If you’re looking to prep even further ahead, consider freezing the formed dough balls for up to 3 months; just bake directly from frozen with an extra minute or two of baking time. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, bake them as instructed, and they’ll turn out just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Gingerbread NYC Cookies

Indulging in a batch of Gingerbread NYC Cookies is just the beginning of your holiday magic; let’s build the perfect cozy experience!

Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a rich and creamy cup of hot cocoa, the perfect complement to enhance those warm spices.
Spiced Chai Tea: This aromatic tea’s blend of spices mirrors the flavors in the cookies, creating a delightful pairing for your senses.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream brings a sweet contrast, allowing the cookie’s warm flavors to shine even brighter.
Candied Pecans: Crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty pecans will add a delightful texture contrast that balances the chewy softness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cream cheese and mild cheeses can create a whimsical sweetness against the spiced cookies, perfect for holiday entertaining.
Brownie Bites: Pairing these cookies with fudgy brownie bites elevates the dessert spread and adds an indulgent twist for chocolate lovers.
Ginger Ale: This bubbly, spicy drink serves as a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness, making every bite feel special.
Peppermint Milkshake: A festive milkshake topped with whipped cream offers a cool, minty flair, making your cookie experience unforgettable.
Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider perfectly captures the essence of the season, harmonizing beautifully with every bite of your gingerbread cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread NYC Cookies

Room Temperature: Place baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 7 days; just make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time for fresh Gingerbread NYC Cookies.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. They’ll regain their gooeyness, making them perfect for a cozy snack anytime!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread NYC Cookies

Proper Butter Softening: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted. This gives your dough the right consistency and texture for perfect cookies.
Chill for Shape: Don’t skip chilling the dough! Keeping the cookie dough cool prevents excessive spreading, ensuring your Gingerbread NYC Cookies maintain their chunky shape while baking.
Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Accurate ingredient ratios affect the texture and taste of your cookies, keeping them chewy and delicious.
Do Not Overmix: When combining dry ingredients with wet, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of tender, gooey treats.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices! Increasing the ground ginger or adding extra spices like cloves can elevate the flavor profile of your Gingerbread NYC Cookies.

Gingerbread NYC Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right spices for my Gingerbread NYC Cookies?
Absolutely! For an authentic flavor, choose fresh ground spices. Look for spices with vibrant color and a strong aromatics. Avoid using spices that have been sitting in your pantry for over six months, as they lose potency. If you can, try grinding whole spices for a fresher taste.

What’s the best way to store my baked Gingerbread NYC Cookies?
To keep those cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. For extra moisture retention, you can add a slice of bread in the container. If you want them to last longer, wrap them well in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to a week!

Can I freeze the dough for Gingerbread NYC Cookies?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option. Roll your cookie dough into 120g balls and place them on a baking sheet on parchment paper. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very common! If your Gingerbread NYC Cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for a longer period—at least an hour. You can also reduce your oven temperature slightly and place the cookies farther apart on the baking tray. Using a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients accurately will help maintain the right dough consistency, too!

Are there any dietary considerations for my Gingerbread NYC Cookies?
Great question! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute ingredients. Use dairy-free butter for a vegan option, and a flax egg (1 Tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 Tbsp water) in place of the egg. Be cautious with the white chocolate chips if there are allergy concerns; there are many nut-free options available on the market.

How can I revive cookies that have gone stale?
If your wonderful cookies seem a bit stale, fear not! You can revive them by popping them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, place them in a warm oven (around 150°F/65°C) for a few minutes to bring back their delightful gooey texture. Enjoy your freshly enjoyed Gingerbread NYC Cookies!