These traditional gingerbread cookies capture the heart of Christmas baking with their perfect balance of sweet molasses and aromatic spices. The addition of nutmeg and cardamom elevates this classic recipe, creating cookies that are both nostalgic and sophisticated.
Christmas Gingerbread Cookie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup molasses (the star ingredient!)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and all spices. The cardamom and nutmeg will create an intoxicating fragrance that promises delicious cookies ahead.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). This creates the perfect texture foundation.
- Add molasses magic: Pour in the rich, dark molasses along with the egg and vanilla. Beat until well combined. The molasses gives these cookies their distinctive deep flavor and beautiful color.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix!
- Chill the dough: Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for easy rolling and cutting.
Rolling and Cutting
- Prepare your workspace: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll with care: Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. The dough should feel firm but pliable.
- Cut your shapes: Use traditional gingerbread people cutters or festive Christmas shapes. Re-roll scraps gently to avoid tough cookies.
- Transfer to baking sheets: Place cookies 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Baking to Perfection
Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set but centers still look slightly soft. The cookies will continue cooking on the hot pan after removal.
Pro tip: Slightly underbaked cookies stay chewy, while a minute longer creates crispy edges.
Decorating Your Christmas Masterpieces
Royal Icing Recipe:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 5-6 tablespoons warm water
Beat until stiff peaks form. Divide and tint with food coloring for festive designs.
Simple Decoration Ideas:
- Classic white icing with colorful candy buttons
- Dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect
- Melted chocolate drizzle for elegant simplicity
Storage and Serving
Store in an airtight container for up to one week. These cookies actually improve in flavor after a day or two as the spices meld together beautifully.
Perfect for cookie exchanges, gift giving, or leaving out for Santa with a glass of milk!
Why This Recipe Works
The molasses provides moisture and deep flavor, while the cardamom adds an exotic warmth that complements the traditional ginger. The nutmeg rounds out the spice profile with its subtle sweetness. This combination creates cookies that taste like Christmas memories in every bite.
Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, these traditional gingerbread cookies will become your go-to recipe for creating magical Christmas moments. The forgiving dough and clear instructions ensure success every time.
Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with the warmth of homemade cookies and cherished traditions!
