There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic aroma of warm gingerbread wafting through your home. The blend of spices, molasses, and brown sugar creates a cozy and festive ambiance, perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. This Easy Gingerbread Recipe is a delightful classic that’s simple to make yet undeniably comforting. So, grab your apron and get ready to bake up a batch of these delightful gingerbread goodies!
Easy Gingerbread Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: icing or powdered sugar for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and beat until smooth and well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the dough and roll it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork or your palm for a classic gingerbread shape.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden brown.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once the cookies are cooled, you can decorate them with icing or dust them with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.
Enjoy these delightful Easy Gingerbread cookies with a steaming cup of tea or hot cocoa, or share them with loved ones as a homemade gift. These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, bake sales, or simply as a sweet indulgence on a cozy night in. The warm spices and rich molasses flavor in every bite will surely bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Happy baking!
