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Classic Gingerbread Men Irresistible Holiday Treats

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- 3 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 tablespoon ground ginger - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/2 cup molasses - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Royal icing for decoration - Assorted candies for decoration Making classic gingerbread men starts with gathering the right ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that warm, spicy flavor we love. The flour forms the base of the cookies, giving them structure. Baking soda helps the cookies rise, making them soft yet firm. Ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg add the essential holiday spices. These spices create that signature gingerbread taste, warming our hearts with every bite. Salt does not just add flavor; it balances the sweetness. The butter and brown sugar bring richness and moisture. Molasses gives the cookies their deep color and unique flavor. An egg binds the dough, while vanilla adds a comforting aroma. For decoration, royal icing is perfect for that shiny finish. You can use assorted candies to bring your gingerbread men to life. Think mini M&Ms, gumdrops, or sprinkles! Gather these ingredients, and you will be ready to bake some delicious gingerbread men. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. - Set this dry mix aside for later use. - In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer. - Mix the softened butter and brown sugar for 3-5 minutes until fluffy. - Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract into the mixture. - Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. - Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. - Mix until a cohesive dough forms. - Chill the dough by dividing it into two discs and wrap in plastic. - Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. - Cut out shapes with cookie cutters, placing them on prepared sheets. - Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. - Allow cookies to cool before decorating. - Use royal icing and assorted candies to create fun designs. To make great gingerbread men, you need the right dough. If your dough feels sticky, add more flour. Start with a tablespoon and mix it in. Repeat until the dough becomes easy to handle. Chilling the dough is very important. Wrap it in plastic and put it in the fridge for at least one hour. This helps the dough firm up and makes rolling easier. Make sure your oven is at the right temperature. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) before baking. Use an oven thermometer to check if it's accurate. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. The edges will firm up, while the centers stay soft. This helps them stay chewy. Time to get creative! Use royal icing to add fun designs on your cookies. You can create faces, outfits, or patterns. Let your imagination run wild! For decoration, use assorted candies like mini M&Ms, gumdrops, or sprinkles. These candies add color and fun to each gingerbread man. Pro Tips Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Check for Doneness: To avoid overbaking, keep an eye on the cookies; they should be firm around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out. Decorate with Care: Use a piping bag for precise icing application. This will help you create detailed designs and make your gingerbread men look festive! Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of your gingerbread men. One simple way is to add orange zest to the dough. The orange adds a fresh and bright taste. This twist makes your cookies stand out. You can also use honey instead of molasses. Honey gives a lighter, sweeter flavor. It makes the cookies a bit softer, too. If you need a gluten-free version, it's easy to switch up the flour. Use a good gluten-free flour blend. Many brands work well in cookie recipes. Just make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps keep the cookies together. Your gingerbread men will still taste great and be fun to eat. You can make these gingerbread men vegan with a few swaps. Replace the butter with plant-based butter. This keeps the dough rich and smooth. For the egg, use a flax egg instead. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This mix works as a binding agent in the dough, so your cookies hold their shape. Enjoy these tasty treats while keeping to a vegan diet! To keep your gingerbread men fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work great. Line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store the cookies at room temperature. They stay fresh for about one week. You can also refrigerate them if you want them to last longer. In the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. You can freeze gingerbread men before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap the dough in plastic wrap. Place it in a freezer bag, and it can last for up to three months. When you are ready to bake, thaw the dough in the fridge overnight. If you freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer in an airtight container. You can freeze them for up to three months. For thawing, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours. Enjoy your delicious treats whenever you want! Yes, store-bought royal icing works well. It saves time and still tastes great. You can find it at most grocery stores. Just grab a tube or a container. It makes decorating a breeze! Refrigeration and proper dough thickness help. Chilling the dough firms it up, which keeps the cookies from spreading too much. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick when rolling out. This thickness gives the cookies a nice shape. Yes, they can be made and stored several days in advance. Bake the cookies and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh and tasty for up to a week. Alternatives include melted chocolate or glaze. Melted chocolate works well for a sweet touch. A simple glaze of powdered sugar and water is also a good option. Get creative with whatever you have on hand! This post covered making delightful gingerbread men from scratch. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps, and expert tips. Crafting your dough and decorating with icing can be fun. Remember to chill your dough for the best results. Add your special twist with flavors or decorations. Storing and freezing techniques help keep them fresh. Enjoy baking and sharing these treats with loved ones. Now, it's your time to create delicious memories with gingerbread men!

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Get ready to fill your home with festive cheer as we bake Classic Gingerbread Men! These irresistible holiday treats are perfect for decorating, sharing, and enjoying. With warm spices and a touch of sweetness, you’ll love making these cookies with friends and family. Follow my simple steps to create your gingerbread men and discover helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time. Let’s bring the holiday spirit to life!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Deliciously Spiced: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, inviting flavor that is perfect for the holiday season.
  2. Fun to Decorate: Each gingerbread man can be personalized with royal icing and candies, making it a creative project for kids and adults alike.
  3. Tradition at Its Best: Baking gingerbread men is a cherished holiday tradition in many households, bringing families together in the kitchen.
  4. Perfect for Gifting: These charming cookies make lovely gifts for friends and family, beautifully packaged in a jar or on a festive platter.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 3 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 tablespoon ground ginger

– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1/2 cup brown sugar

– 1/2 cup molasses

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– Royal icing for decoration

– Assorted candies for decoration

Making classic gingerbread men starts with gathering the right ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that warm, spicy flavor we love.

The flour forms the base of the cookies, giving them structure. Baking soda helps the cookies rise, making them soft yet firm. Ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg add the essential holiday spices. These spices create that signature gingerbread taste, warming our hearts with every bite.

Salt does not just add flavor; it balances the sweetness. The butter and brown sugar bring richness and moisture. Molasses gives the cookies their deep color and unique flavor. An egg binds the dough, while vanilla adds a comforting aroma.

For decoration, royal icing is perfect for that shiny finish. You can use assorted candies to bring your gingerbread men to life. Think mini M&Ms, gumdrops, or sprinkles!

Gather these ingredients, and you will be ready to bake some delicious gingerbread men.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Dry Ingredients

– Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

– Set this dry mix aside for later use.

Creaming Butter and Sugar

– In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer.

– Mix the softened butter and brown sugar for 3-5 minutes until fluffy.

Combining Wet Ingredients

– Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract into the mixture.

– Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.

Forming the Dough

– Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

– Mix until a cohesive dough forms.

– Chill the dough by dividing it into two discs and wrap in plastic.

Baking the Cookies

– Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick.

– Cut out shapes with cookie cutters, placing them on prepared sheets.

– Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Decorating the Gingerbread Men

– Allow cookies to cool before decorating.

– Use royal icing and assorted candies to create fun designs.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Dough

To make great gingerbread men, you need the right dough. If your dough feels sticky, add more flour. Start with a tablespoon and mix it in. Repeat until the dough becomes easy to handle. Chilling the dough is very important. Wrap it in plastic and put it in the fridge for at least one hour. This helps the dough firm up and makes rolling easier.

Baking Tips

Make sure your oven is at the right temperature. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) before baking. Use an oven thermometer to check if it’s accurate. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. The edges will firm up, while the centers stay soft. This helps them stay chewy.

Decorating Tips

Time to get creative! Use royal icing to add fun designs on your cookies. You can create faces, outfits, or patterns. Let your imagination run wild! For decoration, use assorted candies like mini M&Ms, gumdrops, or sprinkles. These candies add color and fun to each gingerbread man.

Pro Tips

  1. Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
  2. Check for Doneness: To avoid overbaking, keep an eye on the cookies; they should be firm around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
  3. Decorate with Care: Use a piping bag for precise icing application. This will help you create detailed designs and make your gingerbread men look festive!
  4. Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Variations

Alternative Flavors

You can easily change the flavor of your gingerbread men. One simple way is to add orange zest to the dough. The orange adds a fresh and bright taste. This twist makes your cookies stand out. You can also use honey instead of molasses. Honey gives a lighter, sweeter flavor. It makes the cookies a bit softer, too.

Gluten-Free Option

If you need a gluten-free version, it’s easy to switch up the flour. Use a good gluten-free flour blend. Many brands work well in cookie recipes. Just make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps keep the cookies together. Your gingerbread men will still taste great and be fun to eat.

Vegan Version

You can make these gingerbread men vegan with a few swaps. Replace the butter with plant-based butter. This keeps the dough rich and smooth. For the egg, use a flax egg instead. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This mix works as a binding agent in the dough, so your cookies hold their shape. Enjoy these tasty treats while keeping to a vegan diet!

Storage Info

Storing Gingerbread Men

To keep your gingerbread men fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work great. Line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store the cookies at room temperature. They stay fresh for about one week. You can also refrigerate them if you want them to last longer. In the fridge, they can last up to two weeks.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze gingerbread men before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap the dough in plastic wrap. Place it in a freezer bag, and it can last for up to three months. When you are ready to bake, thaw the dough in the fridge overnight.

If you freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer in an airtight container. You can freeze them for up to three months. For thawing, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours. Enjoy your delicious treats whenever you want!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought icing?

Yes, store-bought royal icing works well. It saves time and still tastes great. You can find it at most grocery stores. Just grab a tube or a container. It makes decorating a breeze!

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?

Refrigeration and proper dough thickness help. Chilling the dough firms it up, which keeps the cookies from spreading too much. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick when rolling out. This thickness gives the cookies a nice shape.

Can I make these gingerbread men ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made and stored several days in advance. Bake the cookies and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh and tasty for up to a week.

What can I use for decorating if I don’t have royal icing?

Alternatives include melted chocolate or glaze. Melted chocolate works well for a sweet touch. A simple glaze of powdered sugar and water is also a good option. Get creative with whatever you have on hand!

This post covered making delightful gingerbread men from scratch. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps, and expert tips. Crafting your dough and decorating with icing can be fun. Remember to chill your dough for the best results. Add your special twist with flavors or decorations. Storing and freezing techniques help keep them fresh. Enjoy baking and sharing these treats with loved ones. Now, it’s your time to create delicious memories with gingerbread me

- 3 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 tablespoon ground ginger - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/2 cup molasses - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Royal icing for decoration - Assorted candies for decoration Making classic gingerbread men starts with gathering the right ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that warm, spicy flavor we love. The flour forms the base of the cookies, giving them structure. Baking soda helps the cookies rise, making them soft yet firm. Ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg add the essential holiday spices. These spices create that signature gingerbread taste, warming our hearts with every bite. Salt does not just add flavor; it balances the sweetness. The butter and brown sugar bring richness and moisture. Molasses gives the cookies their deep color and unique flavor. An egg binds the dough, while vanilla adds a comforting aroma. For decoration, royal icing is perfect for that shiny finish. You can use assorted candies to bring your gingerbread men to life. Think mini M&Ms, gumdrops, or sprinkles! Gather these ingredients, and you will be ready to bake some delicious gingerbread men. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. - Set this dry mix aside for later use. - In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer. - Mix the softened butter and brown sugar for 3-5 minutes until fluffy. - Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract into the mixture. - Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. - Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. - Mix until a cohesive dough forms. - Chill the dough by dividing it into two discs and wrap in plastic. - Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. - Cut out shapes with cookie cutters, placing them on prepared sheets. - Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. - Allow cookies to cool before decorating. - Use royal icing and assorted candies to create fun designs. To make great gingerbread men, you need the right dough. If your dough feels sticky, add more flour. Start with a tablespoon and mix it in. Repeat until the dough becomes easy to handle. Chilling the dough is very important. Wrap it in plastic and put it in the fridge for at least one hour. This helps the dough firm up and makes rolling easier. Make sure your oven is at the right temperature. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) before baking. Use an oven thermometer to check if it's accurate. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. The edges will firm up, while the centers stay soft. This helps them stay chewy. Time to get creative! Use royal icing to add fun designs on your cookies. You can create faces, outfits, or patterns. Let your imagination run wild! For decoration, use assorted candies like mini M&Ms, gumdrops, or sprinkles. These candies add color and fun to each gingerbread man. Pro Tips Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Check for Doneness: To avoid overbaking, keep an eye on the cookies; they should be firm around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out. Decorate with Care: Use a piping bag for precise icing application. This will help you create detailed designs and make your gingerbread men look festive! Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of your gingerbread men. One simple way is to add orange zest to the dough. The orange adds a fresh and bright taste. This twist makes your cookies stand out. You can also use honey instead of molasses. Honey gives a lighter, sweeter flavor. It makes the cookies a bit softer, too. If you need a gluten-free version, it's easy to switch up the flour. Use a good gluten-free flour blend. Many brands work well in cookie recipes. Just make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps keep the cookies together. Your gingerbread men will still taste great and be fun to eat. You can make these gingerbread men vegan with a few swaps. Replace the butter with plant-based butter. This keeps the dough rich and smooth. For the egg, use a flax egg instead. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This mix works as a binding agent in the dough, so your cookies hold their shape. Enjoy these tasty treats while keeping to a vegan diet! To keep your gingerbread men fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work great. Line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store the cookies at room temperature. They stay fresh for about one week. You can also refrigerate them if you want them to last longer. In the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. You can freeze gingerbread men before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap the dough in plastic wrap. Place it in a freezer bag, and it can last for up to three months. When you are ready to bake, thaw the dough in the fridge overnight. If you freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer in an airtight container. You can freeze them for up to three months. For thawing, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours. Enjoy your delicious treats whenever you want! Yes, store-bought royal icing works well. It saves time and still tastes great. You can find it at most grocery stores. Just grab a tube or a container. It makes decorating a breeze! Refrigeration and proper dough thickness help. Chilling the dough firms it up, which keeps the cookies from spreading too much. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick when rolling out. This thickness gives the cookies a nice shape. Yes, they can be made and stored several days in advance. Bake the cookies and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh and tasty for up to a week. Alternatives include melted chocolate or glaze. Melted chocolate works well for a sweet touch. A simple glaze of powdered sugar and water is also a good option. Get creative with whatever you have on hand! This post covered making delightful gingerbread men from scratch. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps, and expert tips. Crafting your dough and decorating with icing can be fun. Remember to chill your dough for the best results. Add your special twist with flavors or decorations. Storing and freezing techniques help keep them fresh. Enjoy baking and sharing these treats with loved ones. Now, it's your time to create delicious memories with gingerbread men!

Classic Gingerbread Men

Deliciously spiced gingerbread cookies shaped like men, perfect for holiday decorating.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 half teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 half teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 quantity Royal icing for decoration (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 quantity Assorted candies for decoration (such as mini M&Ms, gumdrops, or sprinkles)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.
  • In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly until all components are well integrated and the mixture appears smooth.
  • Slowly incorporate the reserved dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture in batches. Mix until a cohesive dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add flour by the tablespoon until it’s easier to handle.
  • Divide the dough into two equal discs. Wrap each disc tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. Chilling aids in firming up the dough for easier rolling.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • On a lightly floured surface, take one disc of chilled dough and roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use gingerbread men cookie cutters to cut out shapes, placing them carefully on the prepared baking sheets about an inch apart.
  • Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain slightly soft. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
  • Once the cookies are fully cooled, it’s time to unleash your creativity! Decorate the gingerbread men with royal icing and assorted candies, turning each cookie into a charming character.

Notes

Arrange the beautifully decorated gingerbread men on a festive platter or display them standing in a clear jar for a whimsical holiday centerpiece. For added seasonal charm, embellish the display with cinnamon sticks or a few pinecones!
Keyword cookies, gingerbread, holiday

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