Name: Soft Gingerbread Cookies That Will Warm Your Heart This Holiday
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Salted Butter (adds richness and moisture—unsalted butter works too, just adjust salt content elsewhere.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie's soft texture.); 1/3 cup Brown Sugar; 1 whole Egg (acts as a binder, offering structure and stability to cookies.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (enhances the overall flavor—vanilla bean paste is a great alternative for a more intense kick.); 1/3 cup Molasses; 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (forms the cookie’s structure—make sure to spoon and level for precise measurement.); 2 teaspoons Baking Soda (helps the cookies rise, achieving that perfect soft texture.); 1/4 teaspoon Baking Powder (assists in leavening.); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (provides warmth and that festive spice everyone loves.); 1 tablespoon Ground Ginger (an essential ingredient for delivering the true gingerbread taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (adds a subtle warm spice note that complements the other flavors.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves (a little goes a long way, giving a fragrant finish.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (offers creaminess and a tangy touch to the frosting.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sweetens while thickening the frosting to the right consistency.); 1/4 cup Butter (adds richness—let it sit at room temperature for easier mixing.); 1/8 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (enhances the flavor of the frosting beautifully.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (a must for that extra flavor boost.); 1 tablespoon Milk (adjust the frosting's consistency to your preference.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen can evoke memories of cozy family gatherings and festive cheer. That’s exactly what you’ll get with my recipe for Soft Gingerbread Cookies. These delightfully chewy holiday treats offer a harmonious blend of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses, making them a perfect addition to your seasonal baking lineup. Not only are they easy to whip up—no chilling required!—but they’re also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. So, why settle for store-bought when you can create a batch of these homemade gingersnap wonders? Ready to bring a little holiday cheer to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Chewy Delight: Get ready to indulge in cookies that melt in your mouth, with a soft and chewy texture that’s far superior to traditional hard gingerbread.

Aroma of Warmth: The inviting scent of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that brings the holiday spirit alive.

Easy to Make: With no chilling required, you can whip up these delectable cookies in no time, making them perfect for last-minute holiday baking.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add nuts or dried fruits, or swap the frosting with something like chocolate ganache—perfect for customizing to your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a festive gathering or a sweet family treat, these cookies are sure to impress everyone at the table, making them your new go-to holiday recipe.

For more cookie inspirations, check out my delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies or my delightful Lemon Raspberry Cookies!

Soft Gingerbread Cookie Ingredients

Note: Gather these essentials for the best soft gingerbread cookies that will bring warmth to your holiday baking!

For the Cookie Dough

Salted Butter – 3/4 cup; adds richness and moisture—unsalted butter works too, just adjust salt content elsewhere.
Granulated Sugar – 3/4 cup; provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s soft texture.
Brown Sugar – 1/3 cup; adds moisture and depth of flavor from its molasses—can substitute with more granulated sugar, but texture might vary.
Whole Egg – 1; acts as a binder, offering structure and stability to cookies.
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor—vanilla bean paste is a great alternative for a more intense kick.
Molasses – 1/3 cup; imparts that classic gingerbread flavor—no direct substitute; light corn syrup may work but won’t provide the same depth.
All-Purpose Flour – 2 1/4 cups; forms the cookie’s structure—make sure to spoon and level for precise measurement.
Baking Soda – 2 teaspoons; helps the cookies rise, achieving that perfect soft texture.
Baking Powder – 1/4 teaspoon; assists in leavening.
Ground Cinnamon – 1 tablespoon; provides warmth and that festive spice everyone loves.
Ground Ginger – 1 tablespoon; an essential ingredient for delivering the true gingerbread taste.
Ground Nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon; adds a subtle warm spice note that complements the other flavors.
Ground Cloves – 1/4 teaspoon; a little goes a long way, giving a fragrant finish.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – 8 ounces; offers creaminess and a tangy touch to the frosting.
Powdered Sugar – 1 cup; sweetens while thickening the frosting to the right consistency.
Butter – 1/4 cup; adds richness—let it sit at room temperature for easier mixing.
Ground Cinnamon – 1/8 teaspoon; enhances the flavor of the frosting beautifully.
Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons; a must for that extra flavor boost.
Milk – 1 tablespoon; adjust the frosting’s consistency to your preference.

With these ingredients on hand, you’ll soon be baking the most delicious soft gingerbread cookies that not only taste incredible but will also fill your home with joy and nostalgia!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Gingerbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking, ensuring they come out smoothly once baked. The warm oven will be perfect for creating the soft gingerbread cookies’ tender texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of salted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/3 cup brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it appears pale and has increased in volume, creating the perfect base for your cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Flavorings
Next, add in 1 whole egg, 1/3 cup of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix everything together on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined, about another minute. At this point, the rich, aromatic notes of the molasses and vanilla will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for your delicious soft gingerbread cookies.

Step 4: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and your spices: 1 tablespoon each of ground cinnamon and ground ginger, plus 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. This mixture ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices, which contributes to the delightful flavor and texture of the cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain the tender texture of the soft gingerbread cookies. The dough will come together and may be slightly sticky, which is a good sign for achieving that chewy finish!

Step 6: Form the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop (about 1½ tablespoons), scoop out portions of the dough and place them onto your prepared baking sheets. Ensure they are spaced at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while they bake. The dough will be slightly soft; that’s perfectly fine, as it will create a wonderfully chewy cookie once baked.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be light golden brown around the edges while still appearing soft in the center. This is crucial for achieving the soft texture that characterizes great soft gingerbread cookies.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. This short cooling period will help them set slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Handle them gently as they will be soft and delicate initially.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 1/8 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a knife or spatula to frost each cookie generously with the cream cheese mixture. If desired, sprinkle some festive decorations on top to add a touch of holiday cheer. These soft gingerbread cookies are now ready to impress your friends and family with their delightful, chewy texture and delicious flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These soft gingerbread cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, scoop out the chilled dough and place it on a prepared baking sheet, allowing for slight spreading. The baked cookies can also be stored unfrosted in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, keeping them just as delicious. Frost them just before serving for the best flavor and texture, ensuring each bite is a festive delight!

What to Serve with Soft Gingerbread Cookies

The perfect meal deserves delightful companions; here are some ideas to elevate your holiday cookie experience while complementing their sweetness and spice.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A creamy, rich hot cocoa brings a luxurious warmth, enhancing the cozy flavors of the cookies. It’s the ultimate pairing for chilly nights.
Chai Tea: With its warm spices like cardamom and cinnamon, this fragrant tea harmonizes beautifully, creating a comforting balance with the gingerbread notes.
Creamy Pumpkin Soup: This velvety soup adds a savory element, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for a festive brunch spread.
Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider adds a festive flair; its sweetness pairs well with the ginger and cinnamon flavors, rounding out your holiday table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream against the spiced cookie backdrop creates a delightful interaction of textures, as the coolness complements the warmth of the gingerbread.
Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like Brie or a tangy goat cheese offer contrasting flavors, adding a savory element that somehow makes the sweetness of the cookies even more satisfying.

These pairings will not only complement your Soft Gingerbread Cookies but also weave a tapestry of flavors and warmth, creating memorable moments gathered with loved ones.

Soft Gingerbread Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with these delightful twists!

Nuts & Fruits: Add walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra texture and flavor. They’ll bring a lovely crunch and sweetness to your cookies.
Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. This will add not only flavor but also a touch of wholesome goodness.
Chocolate Frosting: Try swapping the cream cheese frosting with chocolate ganache for a rich, indulgent experience that pairs wonderfully with the spiced cookies.
Spicy Exotic Twist: Boost the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper for a heat kick, creating an intriguing balance of sweet and spicy.
Pumpkin Spice Blend: Replace some ginger and cinnamon with a pumpkin spice seasoning for a warm autumnal flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Glaze Finish: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze instead of frosting for a zesty contrast to the warm spices, brightening up the flavors beautifully.
Vegan Cookies: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use ground flaxseed mixed with water in place of the egg for a vegan-friendly version that’s equally delicious.
Decorative Touch: Consider adding festive sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the frosting for a cheerful presentation for your holiday gatherings.

For more cookie inspiration, don’t forget to check out my delightful Lemon Raspberry Cookies and my tempting Tiramisu Cookies Melt!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Gingerbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for snacking anytime.

Fridge: If you’ve frosted your soft gingerbread cookies, place them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They should be enjoyed within 3-4 days to preserve their flavor and creaminess.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months while maintaining their delicious texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours. If you prefer them warm, a quick 5-10 seconds in the microwave will do wonders, reviving their softness!

Expert Tips for Soft Gingerbread Cookies

Use Brown Sugar: This ingredient is essential for creating soft gingerbread cookies; white sugar alone can lead to dryness.

Cool Before Handling: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to prevent breakage; they’re very soft when fresh out of the oven.

Frost Fully Cooled Cookies: Frost only once the cookies are completely cooled to ensure the icing doesn’t slide off, maintaining their delightful appearance.

Prevent Over-Mixing: Be careful not to over-mix your dough when combining wet and dry ingredients; this helps maintain the chewy texture.

Proper Storage: Store unfrosted cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week; frosted cookies can be refrigerated but should be eaten within 3-4 days.

Soft Gingerbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for baking soft gingerbread cookies?
Absolutely! Fresh ingredients are key to delicious cookies. Choose room-temperature butter for easy creaming, vibrant ground spices for maximum flavor, and high-quality molasses for the classic gingerbread taste. Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for the best rise!

What’s the best way to store my soft gingerbread cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store unfrosted ones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you frost them, place the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container, and enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture!

Can I freeze soft gingerbread cookies?
The more the merrier! Yes, you can freeze unfrosted cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds for that just-baked softness again!

What should I do if my gingerbread cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough is sticky, don’t worry. This can happen if the butter is too soft or if too much moisture was added. Try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes to firm it up. You can also add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, but be careful not to overdo it, as adding too much flour can lead to drier cookies.

Are there any dietary considerations for soft gingerbread cookies?
Absolutely! For those with allergies, this recipe contains gluten (flour) and dairy (butter and cream cheese). If you’re baking for someone with these dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free alternatives for butter and frosting. When adapting recipes, pay attention to ingredient ratios for the best outcomes!