Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies for the Holiday Cookie Swap

A Festive Introduction to Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home during the holiday season. If you’re excited for the festive season and looking to impress your friends and family, then look no further than these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie packed with spicy ginger and a hint of molasses, dusted in powdered sugar like a winter wonderland. Fun fact: the origins of gingerbread date back to ancient Greece, used mostly for medicinal purposes! These cookies aren’t just another holiday treat; they encapsulate the spirit of the season, making them a must-have at any cookie swap. With even your kids jumping in to help, this simple recipe makes baking a fun family affair. Compared to regular gingerbread men, these cookies bring that classic flavor with a delightful twist! Get ready to spread joy and cookie love this holiday season!

What are Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies?

So, why the unique name “Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies”? Sounds whimsical, right? Picture this: You’re preparing for a cozy night in, and your cookies puff up in the oven, cracking like tiny snowflakes as they bake. You’re greeted with the delightful scent of ginger and spices wafting through your kitchen! Legend has it that ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ and I’d bet these crinkle cookies will win over everyone, no one can resist that inviting aroma! Plus, isn’t it fun to say “crinkle”? So why don’t you dive into this joyful baking adventure and make some for yourself?

Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Now, what makes these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies stand out from all the other holiday treats? First off, they are the perfect marriage of spice and sweetness. The chewy texture paired with the crisp, sugary coating makes each bite a delightful experience. Second, making these cookies at home can save you a few bucks compared to buying fancy cookies from a store! And let’s be honest, there’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a beloved family recipe. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins — perhaps some chocolate chips or crushed nuts? Comparing these to traditional sugar cookies, these crinkle cookies pack a punch of flavor that’s sure to get people talking. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and try these for your next batch?

How to Make Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Quick Overview

When you think of holiday baking, think of these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies! They’re super easy to prepare, with a total time of just around 30 minutes. With simple, easily accessible ingredients, they come together quickly and bake beautifully, transforming your kitchen into a festive haven of holiday cheer.

Key Ingredients for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• Pub sugar for rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
4. Add Molasses and Egg: Add the molasses and egg to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until smooth and well incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined. Don’t overmix; you want to keep that delightful chewy texture!
6. Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
7. Form Cookies: Once chilled, scoop about a tablespoon of dough, roll it into a ball, and then roll it in powdered sugar until completely coated.
8. Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, giving them space to expand. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until they start to crack on top.
9. Cool and Enjoy: Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to fully cool. Enjoy your beautiful Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies!

What to Serve Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies With:

These cookies are perfect on their own, but if you’re looking to elevate the experience, consider pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a creamy eggnog. They also make an excellent addition to a festive dessert table alongside peppermint bark or classic sugar cookies, creating a delightful dessert spread that everyone will love.

Top Tips for Perfecting Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies:

1. Chill Your Dough: Never skip chilling the dough! It helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
2. Don’t Overbake: These cookies continue to cook as they cool, so take them out when they’re still soft and just set.
3. Add-Ins: Get creative! Consider mixing in chocolate chips, nuts, or even candied ginger for a fun twist.
4. Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Store these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will stay fresh for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that freshly baked warmth.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your mixing bowl and start creating these delightful Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies for the perfect holiday treat! Happy baking!

Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Delightful soft and chewy cookies packed with spicy ginger and molasses, dusted in powdered sugar, perfect for the holiday season.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1 large egg

Coating

• as needed cup powdered sugar for rolling

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
4. Add the molasses and egg to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until smooth and well incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined, but don't overmix.
6. Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.

Baking

1. Once chilled, scoop about a tablespoon of dough, roll it into a ball, and roll it in powdered sugar.
2. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, giving them space to expand.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they start to crack on top.
4. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

For best results, chill the dough and do not overbake. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage. Excellent when paired with spiced chai or eggnog.