Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gingerbread is more than just a dessert; it’s a holiday tradition. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich molasses and a warming blend of spices, creating a comforting treat that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. The slightly chewy texture of gingerbread cookies or the soft, spongy crumb of a gingerbread cake makes it a versatile treat that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even a special holiday breakfast.

Ingredients

For the gingerbread cookies (or cake):

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup dark brown sugar
1 large egg
1 cup unsulfured molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the icing (optional):

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk (or water)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper (if making cookies).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
If making cookies, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or roll into balls and flatten slightly for round cookies.
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
If making a gingerbread cake:
Pour the dough into a greased 9-inch round or square cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, you can decorate the cookies or cake with the icing. To make the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cookies or spread on the cake.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 (for the cake) or 24-30 (for cookies)
Total time: 1 hour
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes (for cake) or 8-10 minutes (for cookies)

Variations

Gingerbread with chocolate chips: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet, chocolatey twist.
Spiced gingerbread: Increase the amount of cinnamon or add other spices like allspice or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-free gingerbread: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this classic treat.
Gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting: Instead of the powdered sugar icing, top the gingerbread cake with a creamy cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover gingerbread cookies or cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If storing for longer, freeze them for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gingerbread cake slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Gingerbread cookies can be enjoyed at room temperature or warmed slightly in the oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I make gingerbread ahead of time?

Yes, gingerbread dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. If baking cookies, you can also bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.

Can I use light molasses instead of dark molasses?

Dark molasses gives gingerbread its deep, rich flavor. Light molasses can be substituted in a pinch, but the flavor will be milder.

Can I decorate gingerbread cookies?

Absolutely! You can decorate gingerbread cookies with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter. Just be sure the cookies are completely cooled before decorating to prevent the icing from melting.

How do I prevent my gingerbread dough from being too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to work with, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out. You can also dust your rolling surface and rolling pin with a little extra flour.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Fresh ginger can be used in place of ground ginger for a more vibrant, zesty flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of finely grated fresh ginger in place of 1 teaspoon of ground ginger.

Can I freeze gingerbread cookies?

Yes, you can freeze gingerbread cookies. After baking and cooling them, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this recipe without an egg?

Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg or use an egg replacer if you need to make the recipe egg-free.

How can I make the gingerbread spicier?

If you like a spicier gingerbread, increase the amount of ground ginger or add more cinnamon and cloves for a stronger flavor.

Can I make gingerbread without baking soda?

Yes, you can make gingerbread without baking soda, but the texture might be a bit different. You can use baking powder as a substitute, though the gingerbread will be a little less chewy.

How do I know when the gingerbread cookies are done baking?

Gingerbread cookies are done when they are firm to the touch and slightly golden on the edges. If the centers still feel soft, they will firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Gingerbread is a timeless treat that fills your home with festive warmth and flavor. Whether you’re making cookies to share with loved ones or preparing a soft, spiced gingerbread cake for a cozy evening, this recipe will not disappoint. The perfect balance of sweet and spicy, gingerbread offers a comforting indulgence that captures the spirit of the season. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, gingerbread is sure to become a holiday tradition in your kitchen!