Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a festive favorite, perfect for any holiday celebration or a cozy afternoon treat. This recipe not only warms the heart but also fills the home with the delightful fragrances of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. With their unique crinkly appearance and chewy texture, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your household.
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Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a wonderful blend of spicy and sweet flavors, making them the ideal holiday dessert. The soft, chewy texture pairs beautifully with a light dusting of powdered sugar, offering a visually striking treat that’s also a delight to the palate.
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Form dough into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar to coat.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set and tops have crackled.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with more powdered sugar if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cookie swap with friends, or simply to enjoy with your family, these cookies tick all the boxes. Plus, the relatively simple preparation means you can whip up a batch without spending all day in the kitchen!
Ingredients for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
To make these delicious Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Ingredient Notes (substitutions, healthy swaps)
For a healthier twist, consider the following substitutions:
- Butter: Use coconut oil or applesauce for a lower-fat option.
- Brown Sugar: You can substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit, adjusting the amount based on sweetness preference.
- Molasses: For a lighter flavor, agave syrup or honey can work as substitutes, though they will slightly alter the taste.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum or an equivalent binding agent for similar texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is easy when you follow these straightforward steps:
Step 1 – Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2 – Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3 – Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies a beautiful texture.
Step 4 – Add Wet Ingredients
Once the butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 5 – Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.
Step 6 – Form the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form the dough into balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to give your cookies that signature crinkle look.
Step 7 – Bake
Place the rolled cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops have cracked.
Step 8 – Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your spices are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose potency and affect the cookie’s taste.
- Chill the Dough: For an extra chewy texture, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out.
- Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, which will help them bake evenly.
- Experiment with Shape: You can also use cookie cutters to create fun shapes instead of traditional dough balls, perfect for holiday presentations!
Flavor Variations
Here are a few ideas to put a unique spin on your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies:
- Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful chocolate twist.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a satisfying crunch and enhance the overall flavor.
- Frosting: Top cookies with a cream cheese or lemon frosting for an indulgent treat.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest for a refreshing note that complements the spices.
- Dried Fruit: Add raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies can be served on their own or paired with a variety of treats. Consider serving them with:
- A warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon snack.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option.
- Arranged on a festive plate for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
To store your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you would like to freeze them, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. These cookies can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 80mg |
FAQ About Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of the egg. For every egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
While Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are beautiful on their own, you can decorate them with royal icing or a simple glaze. You might also sprinkle colored sugar or edible glitter after dusting with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Your cookies are done baking when the edges are set and they have developed a nice crinkle top. They may look slightly underbaked in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.
What can I do if my cookies turn out too hard?
If your cookies end up too hard, it may be due to overbaking. For a softer texture, reduce the baking time by a minute or two if you find they are coming out harder than you’d like. You can also place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies; it will help keep them soft.
Final Thoughts
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the perfect blend of festive flavors and delightful textures. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to create a batch of cookies that will surely bring smiles to those who enjoy them. Whether you’re baking for holidays, gatherings, or simply for yourself, these cookies embody the spirit of the season. Happy baking!