These classic gingerbread man cookies are the perfect holiday treat, with warm spices and a soft, chewy texture that everyone will love. Make a batch to share with friends and family or to decorate as a fun holiday activity.
Ingredients
- 3 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 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Use gingerbread man cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set. Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate the cooled cookies with icing, candies, or sprinkles as desired.
- Enjoy your homemade gingerbread man cookies!
