There’s something truly magical about the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies filling your home, especially during the festive holiday season. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gingerbread cookie recipe that doesn’t use shortening, look no further! Our Best Gingerbread Cookie Without Shortening recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, delivering all the delicious flavor and aroma you love without the need for shortening. These cookies are perfect for cozy evenings by the fire, seasonal gatherings, or simply as a tasty treat to enjoy with a warm cup of tea.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 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 granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and beat until smooth and well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. It may be slightly sticky, but avoid adding extra flour.
6. Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each portion into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
7. Once chilled, roll out one disk of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and carefully transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the remaining dough, gathering and re-rolling any scraps as needed.
12. Once all the cookies are baked and cooled, decorate as desired with royal icing, sprinkles, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
These Best Gingerbread Cookies Without Shortening are not only delicious but also a joy to bake and share with loved ones. Their classic spicy-sweet flavor and delicate, tender texture make them a delightful addition to any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat to enjoy on a chilly evening or a festive dessert for a holiday gathering, these gingerbread cookies are a wonderful choice. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with the delightful scent of freshly baked gingerbread cookies!
