Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the perfect blend of holiday spice and festive charm. These soft and chewy cookies, coated in powdered sugar, boast a beautiful crackled appearance and are bursting with warm flavors like ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a gift box, or just a cozy evening treat, these cookies are sure to impress.

What Are Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies?

Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies combine the classic flavors of gingerbread with the signature crinkly look of crinkle cookies. Made with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, these cookies have a rich, spiced aroma and a soft, tender texture. Rolled in powdered sugar before baking, they develop an irresistible crackled surface as they puff up in the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these cookies a breeze to prepare.
• Festive and Eye-Catching: Their crinkled, powdered sugar-coated appearance is perfect for holiday celebrations.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon delivers a warm, spicy kick.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in a festive tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup (80ml) molasses
• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (for coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Cream the softened butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and molasses, beating until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Shaping the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls.
3. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring an even coating.

Baking the Cookies

1. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies puff up, develop cracks, and are set around the edges but still soft in the center.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy winter treat.
• Add them to a holiday cookie platter alongside sugar cookies and chocolate fudge.
• Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar before serving for an extra festive touch.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions

• To freeze unbaked dough: Roll the dough into balls (without powdered sugar), place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag, and coat in powdered sugar before baking directly from frozen.
• To freeze baked cookies: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Extra Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an even spicier cookie.
• Vegan: Use vegan butter, a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water), and a molasses substitute if needed.

FAQs

Can I use blackstrap molasses?
Yes, but blackstrap molasses has a stronger, slightly bitter flavor, so use it sparingly.

Why chill the dough?
Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and ensuring the cookies retain their shape during baking.

How do I prevent the powdered sugar from melting?
Coat the dough generously and avoid overhandling the balls to keep the sugar intact.

Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their warm spices, chewy texture, and festive appearance make them a favorite for cookie exchanges, gift baskets, or a sweet treat for yourself. Try this recipe and bring a touch of holiday magic to your kitchen. Share your baking experience in the comments or with friends and family!

Print