Bring the holiday cheer with these delightful gingerbread folk! This recipe will guide you through the process of making the most authentic and delicious gingerbread cookies. The warm spices of ginger and cinnamon combined with the sweet molasses create a perfect flavor balance. Decorate these cute little cookies with colorful icing and turn them into edible works of art. They are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering or just as a sweet treat for your family.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup water
- Icing and sprinkles for decoration
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the molasses and water to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and wrap each in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use gingerbread folk cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
- Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, decorate them with icing and sprinkles to create your own gingerbread folk designs.
Interesting Facts
Gingerbread has been a holiday tradition for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient times.
The smell of gingerbread baking is said to be calming and soothing, making it the perfect scent for the holiday season.
In some cultures, it is believed that eating gingerbread folk brings good luck and protection against evil spirits.
Gingerbread houses became popular in Germany during the 19th century and are now a popular holiday decoration and activity.