Gingerbread Cookie Bites

These Gingerbread Cookie Bites are the perfect festive treat, packed with warm spices and rich molasses flavor. They are small, chewy, and irresistibly delicious—ideal for holiday gatherings, gifting, or just indulging in a seasonal sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Holiday Flavors – Warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves create the perfect holiday treat.
• Easy to Make – No need to roll out dough or use cookie cutters—just shape and bake.
• Perfect for Gifting – These bite-sized cookies are great for holiday treat boxes.
• Soft and Chewy – A deliciously chewy texture makes them completely irresistible.
• Freezer-Friendly – Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar – In a separate bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the wet ingredients – Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Shape the dough – Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake – Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
8. Cool – Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 30 bite-sized cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Sugar-Coated – Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a sweet, crackly exterior.
• Iced Gingerbread Bites – Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness.
• Chocolate-Dipped – Dip half of each cookie in melted white or dark chocolate for a delicious twist.
• Nutty Addition – Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for extra crunch.
• Spicier Kick – Increase the ground ginger or add a pinch of cayenne for extra warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigeration: Not necessary but will extend freshness up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them in a low oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

How do I keep these cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to help retain moisture.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.

What kind of molasses should I use?

Use unsulfured molasses for the best flavor—avoid blackstrap molasses, which is too bitter.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter alternatives to make these cookies dairy-free.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips would be a delicious addition.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling isn’t necessary but can help prevent spreading and enhance flavor.

Can I use honey instead of molasses?

Molasses provides the signature gingerbread flavor, but honey can work in a pinch.

How do I get perfectly round cookies?

Roll the dough between your palms and ensure all pieces are uniform in size.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Yes! Package them in festive tins or bags for a perfect holiday treat.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Cookie Bites are a must-make holiday treat, packed with warm spices and a chewy texture that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or dipped in chocolate, they are sure to bring festive cheer to any occasion. Make a batch today and share the holiday spirit!

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