With the holiday season just around the corner, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the house to get everyone in a festive mood. One classic that never fails to delight is the timeless tradition of making gingerbread cookies. These spiced delights are perfect for sharing with loved ones or leaving out for Santa on Christmas Eve. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking these delicious gingerbread cookies together!
**Delicious Gingerbread Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well until smooth and combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it comes together.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disc. Wrap them in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set. Be careful not to overbake as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, you can decorate the gingerbread cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, or simply enjoy them as is!
These delicious gingerbread cookies are the perfect way to spread holiday cheer and bring a touch of warmth to your home. Whether you’re baking them for a cookie swap or just a cozy night in, these spiced treats are sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, grab your apron and get ready to savor the joy of the season with these homemade delights!
