Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that never fails to bring warmth and cheer to any home. The sweet and spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread is enough to evoke memories of cozy winter evenings spent by the fireplace. This recipe for Gingerbread Cookie Cutouts will not only fill your kitchen with the delightful scent of cinnamon and ginger but also allow you to create beautifully shaped cookies that are perfect for decorating and sharing with loved ones during the festive season.
**Gingerbread Cookie Cutouts**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 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, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a smooth dough forms.
6. Divide the dough into two equal portions, form each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
7. Once chilled, roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Gather any scraps of dough, reroll, and continue cutting out shapes until all the dough is used.
10. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden.
11. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once the cookies are completely cool, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or other decorations as desired.
These Gingerbread Cookie Cutouts are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy them plain or get creative with decorating, these cookies are perfect for adding a festive touch to your celebrations. Share them with family and friends, or use them to adorn your holiday table. The combination of warm spices and sweet molasses in these cookies will make them a delightful addition to any gathering. Enjoy the process of making and sharing these Gingerbread Cookie Cutouts during the most wonderful time of the year!
