Introduction
Gingerbread crinkle cookies bring together the deep warmth of molasses and spices with a soft center and delicate sugar coated surface. Each bite feels festive, rich, and comforting without being overly sweet. The cracked powdered sugar top gives them a bakery style look that feels special and inviting.
Holiday baking feels incomplete without a batch of gingerbread crinkle cookies cooling on the counter. The aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves fills the kitchen and instantly creates a cozy atmosphere. These cookies stay soft for days, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Bakers love this recipe because it is simple yet impressive. The dough comes together easily and requires basic pantry ingredients. With proper chilling and careful baking, the cookies develop beautiful cracks and a chewy texture that makes them unforgettable.
Ingredients Needed
Below is the complete ingredient list presented in proper column format with approximate calorie values. Values may vary depending on brand and portion size.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups | 1020 |
| Baking soda | 2 teaspoons | 0 |
| Ground ginger | 2 teaspoons | 12 |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Ground cloves | ½ teaspoon | 3 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Unsalted butter softened | ½ cup | 810 |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | 830 |
| Molasses | ⅓ cup | 290 |
| Large egg | 1 | 70 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | 200 |
| Powdered sugar | ½ cup | 240 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and creamy. This usually takes three to four minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.
- Pour in the molasses and mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix slowly until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling is essential for proper crinkle texture.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking trays with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into small balls about one tablespoon each. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar.
- Roll the coated dough ball generously in powdered sugar to create a thick white coating.
- Place dough balls on the prepared tray leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for ten to twelve minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. The tops will crack naturally.
- Remove cookies from oven and allow them to cool on the tray for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to maintain texture.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for deeper spice flavor.
• Mix in white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
• Increase ginger slightly if a stronger spicy note is preferred.
• Use dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor.
• Chill the dough longer for thicker cookies with defined cracks.
• Store dough overnight for enhanced spice development.
Nutritional Information
Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per cookie based on average serving size.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 22 grams |
| Fat | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugar | 13 grams |
| Sodium | 85 mg |
Gingerbread crinkle cookies contain warming spices that add flavor without extra fat. Molasses provides trace minerals while keeping the cookies moist and chewy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve gingerbread crinkle cookies slightly warm with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. The soft interior pairs beautifully with warm drinks during colder months. Arrange them on a decorative plate for holiday gatherings or gift them in festive boxes.
These cookies also make an excellent addition to dessert tables. Their cracked sugar surface adds visual appeal and texture contrast among other baked treats. For an extra touch, dust a little more powdered sugar just before serving.
They store well in an airtight container for up to five days. The texture remains soft and chewy, making them ideal for preparing ahead of events or celebrations.
Conclusion
Gingerbread crinkle cookies combine warm spices, rich molasses, and a soft chewy texture in a way that feels timeless and comforting. The beautiful cracked sugar coating makes them look as delightful as they taste. Each batch fills the kitchen with aroma that instantly feels festive.
Baking these cookies at home brings simple ingredients together to create something memorable. With easy preparation, clear steps, and room for customization, this recipe becomes a dependable favorite for holidays and everyday sweet cravings alike.
