Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy winter nights. These cookies combine rich flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses with a delightful crinkly exterior that is sure to impress. Their soft, chewy center makes them irresistible, making them a must-try for cookie lovers everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spices like ginger and cinnamon brings warmth and depth to each bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas or a casual get-together, these cookies are always a hit.
- Versatile Treats: You can enjoy them plain or dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: These cookies are fun to make with children, allowing them to help with mixing and rolling.
Tools and Preparation
To make Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining all your ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you bake.
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet helps your cookies bake evenly without sticking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60ml) molasses
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Coating
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, for coating
How to Make Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. Add the flour.
2. Mix in the ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
3. Whisk until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl:
1. Beat the softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Using your hands:
1. Roll dough into small balls (about 1 inch).
2. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until coated.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes.
2. The edges should be set while the centers remain soft.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack:
1. Enjoy your Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing, the creamy texture of milk complements the spiced flavors of the cookies perfectly.
On a Festive Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a decorative platter alongside other holiday treats for an eye-catching dessert table.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea brings out their spices and adds warmth to your snack time.
As Party Favors
- Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons for charming party favors at your next holiday event.
How to Perfect Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
To achieve the ideal texture and flavor for your Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, consider the following tips:
- Use fresh spices: Ensure your ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg are fresh for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
- Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes can help with shaping and enhance flavors.
- Roll evenly: For uniform baking, roll the cookie dough balls to a consistent size before coating them in powdered sugar.
- Watch your bake time: Remove the cookies from the oven when they are just set for that perfect soft center.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.
Best Side Dishes for Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here’s a list of delightful options:
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite complements the ginger flavors wonderfully.
- Apple Cider: Warm apple cider enhances the cozy vibes of gingerbread cookies.
- Chocolate Ganache Dip: A decadent chocolate dip adds richness that contrasts nicely with the spices.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses balances sweetness with savory notes, creating a well-rounded treat.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of gingerbread.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers different textures while keeping it healthy alongside your cookies.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be a delightful topping when serving these cookies warm.
- Custard Sauce: Pouring custard over warm cookies makes for an indulgent dessert experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making soft and spiced gingerbread crinkle cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the measuring: Accurate measurements are key to perfect cookies. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the dough’s texture. Let your butter and eggs sit out until they reach room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine ingredients just until incorporated for that soft texture you want.
- Not chilling the dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor. Allow the dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Using stale spices: Freshness matters! Make sure your spices are not expired for the best flavor in your gingerbread crinkle cookies.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your soft and spiced gingerbread crinkle cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They can last up to one week if stored properly.
Freezing Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about soft and spiced gingerbread crinkle cookies.
Can I make Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Chill it in the fridge overnight before baking.
What makes these cookies so soft?
The combination of butter, molasses, and proper mixing techniques contributes to their tender texture.
How do I know when my Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are done?
Look for cracks on top and a slightly firm edge while keeping the center soft; they will continue to cook slightly after removing from the oven.
Can I customize these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
These soft and spiced gingerbread crinkle cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with various add-ins or spices. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home, they’re sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them!
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive delight of Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations. With their rich blend of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, these cookies boast a soft, chewy interior and a charming crinkly exterior that will have everyone coming back for more. Easy to make and versatile for any occasion, these treats can be enjoyed plain or dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Whether you’re baking with family or looking for the ideal dessert to impress guests, these gingerbread cookies are sure to spread joy and warmth during the cozy winter months.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar, for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg, molasses, and vanilla; mix well.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just blended.
- Roll dough into balls (about 1 inch) and coat in powdered sugar.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10 minutes.
- Let cool briefly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (28g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
