Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread baking in your kitchen. These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic holiday treat. With their rich cocoa flavor blended perfectly with the warming spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, every bite offers a burst of festive joy that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Coated in a dusting of powdered sugar, they resemble freshly fallen snow, conveying the cozy charm of the holiday season. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will fill your home with warmth and sweetness!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for coating
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until everything is well combined and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy in texture.
- Add in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes — this will help the flavors blend and make it easier to handle.
- Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into delightful little balls.
- Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until they are completely coated, giving them that snowy appearance.
- Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For an added touch of flavor, consider sprinkling a hint of sea salt on the cookies right after they come out of the oven.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; they can stay fresh for about a week — if they last that long!
- If you prefer a thicker cookie, consider chilling the dough longer or adjusting the baking time slightly.
Cooking Techniques
Understanding the importance of chilling your dough is key to achieving the perfect texture for these cookies. It helps the flavors meld beautifully and prevents them from spreading too much in the oven. Also, be gentle when rolling the dough balls — you want them to maintain their shape while still being soft and chewy once baked.
FAQ
- Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just roll and bake when you’re ready!
- Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa powder? Yes, using dark cocoa will give your cookies a richer chocolate flavor while maintaining that delicious gingery spice.
Conclusion
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are not just a treat; they are a heartwarming addition to your holiday baking traditions. With their delightful mix of spices and chocolate, they encapsulate the essence of the season in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa at home, they are sure to bring joy and comfort. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!