Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a holiday delight that brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with spices that evoke the spirit of the season. Perfect for Christmas parties or cozy family nights, they stand out with their unique crinkled appearance dusted with powdered sugar. Enjoy these treats with a cup of hot cocoa or as a festive gift for loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a warm spice profile that is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is quick and hassle-free.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a sweet snack at home.
- Beautiful Presentation: The crinkle effect topped with powdered sugar gives them an elegant touch.
- Perfectly Soft Texture: These cookies maintain their soft and chewy texture, making each bite delightful.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking your Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients evenly for the best flavor.
- Cookie sheet: Using a quality cookie sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
- Parchment paper: Lining your cookie sheet with parchment makes for easy cleanup and perfect cookie release.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 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
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60ml) molasses
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For Coating
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
How to Make Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line your cookie sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Ground ginger
3. Ground cinnamon
4. Ground cloves
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Baking soda
7. Salt
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together:
1. Softened unsalted butter
2. Brown sugar
Until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients
To the creamed mixture, add:
1. Large egg
2. Molasses
3. Vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until well coated.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place dough balls on the prepared cookie sheet about two inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still soft.
Step 9: Cool Down
Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are sure to become a favorite during your holiday celebrations! Enjoy every delicious bite!
How to Serve Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Their delightful flavor and soft texture make them a hit among friends and family. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious cookies.
With Warm Beverages
- Hot Chocolate: Pair your cookies with a rich cup of hot chocolate for a comforting treat.
- Spiced Tea: Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea to enhance the ginger flavors.
As Dessert Platters
- Cookie Assortment: Serve these crinkle cookies on a festive platter with other holiday treats like peppermint bark and thumbprint cookies.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create ice cream sandwiches using two cookies and your favorite ice cream flavor for a delightful twist.
Gift Packaging
- In Jars: Layer the cookies in a mason jar tied with a ribbon for an easy homemade gift that looks beautiful.
- Holiday Boxes: Pack them in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for neighbors or friends during the festive season.
How to Perfect Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
To achieve the best results when making Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
- Usage of Fresh Spices: Always use freshly ground spices to enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this will help achieve the right texture.
- Flour Measurement: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This prevents overpacking, leading to denser cookies.
- Chill Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps improve the texture and prevents spreading.
- Oven Calibration: Make sure your oven temperature is accurate by using an oven thermometer; this ensures even baking.
- Coating Technique: Roll your cookie dough balls in powdered sugar just before baking for that classic crinkle effect.
Best Side Dishes for Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies pair well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to complement their flavors perfectly.
- Cream Cheese Frosting – A smooth frosting that adds richness, perfect for drizzling on top of each cookie.
- Nutty Granola – Crunchy granola can provide a contrasting texture when served alongside the soft cookies.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the cookies while adding freshness to your plate.
- Cheese Platter – Pairing with mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor combination, enhancing both sweet and savory notes.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits, then serve alongside the gingerbread crinkle cookies for a delightful dessert option.
- Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts can add a crunchy element that complements the soft texture of the cookies, making for a great snack combo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.
- Incorrect measurements: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise amounts of ingredients. This will help achieve the right texture and flavor.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine ingredients until just mixed for optimal softness.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed. Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the cookie’s rise and texture.
- Skipping the powdered sugar coating: This not only adds sweetness but also creates that signature crinkle effect. Don’t forget this final touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- item: Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
- item: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- item: They can be stored for up to three months for best quality.
Reheating Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.
Can I use different spices?
Yes, feel free to experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor twist.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Look for edges that are set but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
What is the best way to store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Do these cookies freeze well?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Just remember to store them properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
These Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Customize them with your favorite spices or coat them with different sugars. Enjoy the warmth they bring during the holidays or any cozy day!
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 cookies 1x
Description
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, bringing warmth and cheer to any gathering. These soft and chewy cookies are infused with a delightful blend of spices—ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—that perfectly capture the essence of the season. Their crinkled appearance, dusted with powdered sugar, makes them not only a tasty delight but also a visually appealing addition to your festive cookie platter. Perfect for Christmas parties, cozy family nights, or as thoughtful gifts for loved ones, these cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa or spiced tea.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- Powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, molasses, and vanilla to the creamed mixture; mix well.
- Gradually incorporate dry mixture into wet ingredients until combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions and roll into balls; coat in powdered sugar.
- Place on prepared baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes or until edges are set.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (24g)
- Calories: 98
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
