Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Short Description

These Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the perfect holiday treat! They are rich with warm spices, molasses, and brown sugar, creating a chewy yet tender texture. The crinkled powdered sugar coating adds a beautiful contrast, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with warm, comforting spices
• Soft, chewy texture with a slightly crisp exterior
• Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead baking

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 nutmeg
• Ground cloves
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Granulated sugar (for rolling)
• Powdered sugar (for rolling)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
6. Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
7. Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls.
8. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar, ensuring an even coating.
9. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops are cracked and set.
11. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra indulgent treat.
• Citrus Zest: Stir in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright flavor contrast.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Extra Spice: Increase the cinnamon and ginger for a bolder spice flavor.
• Sugar Swap: Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a slight caramel note.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Freezing Dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze uncoated. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then roll in sugars before baking.

FAQs

How do I get the best crinkle effect?

Make sure to roll the dough first in granulated sugar and then generously in powdered sugar. Chilling the dough also helps.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Why did my cookies not crack?

If the dough is too warm, the crinkles may not form properly. Ensure the dough is chilled before baking.

Can I use blackstrap molasses?

Blackstrap molasses is more bitter and less sweet than regular molasses, so it’s best to use mild or dark molasses.

Can I substitute butter with oil?

Butter gives the best flavor, but you can use coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough and using the correct ratio of flour to wet ingredients will help keep the cookies from spreading too thin.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and complement the spice flavors well.

What can I do if I don’t have molasses?

You can substitute with dark corn syrup, honey, or maple syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I store leftover dough?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in batches as needed.

Conclusion

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the ultimate festive treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights. With their warm spices and irresistible texture, they’ll quickly become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re baking them for a party or as a homemade gift, these cookies are sure to impress!

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