Classic Gingerbread Men Recipe

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Classic Gingerbread Men Recipe



Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: About 24 cookies

Get ready to fill your home with the delightful aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies! This classic recipe is perfect for holiday festivities or anytime you’re craving something sweet and spicy. Follow these steps for perfectly chewy gingerbread men every time.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

2. Chill the Dough

  1. Divide the dough in half, shape into two discs, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

3. Roll and Cut

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  3. Use your favorite gingerbread men cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.

4. Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft.
  2. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Decorate

  1. Once cooled, decorate your gingerbread men with icing, candies, or sprinkles for a festive touch.
  2. Let the decorations set before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
  • Spice It Up: Adjust the spices to suit your taste—add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Enjoy baking and sharing these adorable gingerbread cookies with loved ones. Happy holidays!

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