Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Nothing says the holidays quite like the smell of gingerbread cookies baking in the oven! These soft and chewy gingerbread men cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. Their warm spices and customizable decorations make them a festive favorite for all ages.

What Are Gingerbread Men Cookies?

Gingerbread men cookies are a classic holiday treat, made with a spiced molasses-based dough that’s rolled out and cut into playful shapes. These cookies are beloved for their rich flavor, soft texture, and endless decorating possibilities, from simple icing outlines to elaborate candy embellishments.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy texture: Unlike some gingerbread cookies that can be hard, these stay tender for days.
• Perfectly spiced: A blend of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates a warming, aromatic flavor.
• Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for prepping in advance for holiday gatherings.
• Customizable: Decorate them as simply or elaborately as you like.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these soft and chewy gingerbread men cookies:

• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (120ml) molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

Rolling and Cutting

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use gingerbread men cookie cutters to cut out shapes, re-rolling scraps as needed.

Baking the Cookies

1. Place the cut-out cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
2. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set. Avoid overbaking for softer cookies.
3. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorating

Decorate the cooled cookies with icing, sprinkles, candies, or leave them plain for a more traditional look.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these cookies with hot chocolate, coffee, or spiced cider for a cozy treat.
• Package them in festive tins or bags for thoughtful holiday gifts.
• Use them as edible ornaments by adding a small hole before baking and threading ribbon through.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Instructions

• For unbaked dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.
• For baked cookies: Freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating or serving.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan: Use vegan butter, a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water), and a molasses substitute if necessary.
• Spicier cookies: Add a pinch of black pepper for extra warmth.
• Different shapes: Use any festive cookie cutters to suit your celebration.

FAQs

Can I skip refrigerating the dough?
Refrigeration is crucial for firming the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes without sticking or spreading during baking.

What if I don’t have molasses?
You can substitute molasses with dark corn syrup or a mix of honey and maple syrup, but the flavor will be less traditional.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading?
Ensure the dough is properly chilled and avoid overworking it when rolling and cutting.

These soft and chewy gingerbread men cookies are a must-have for the holiday season. With their delightful flavor, festive shapes, and endless decorating options, they’re a joy to make and share. Try them out and create lasting memories with family and friends this year. Happy baking!

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