Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the perfect treat to warm your home during the holiday season. With their soft texture and delightful spices, these cookies not only taste amazing but also bring a festive spirit to any gathering. Their crinkled appearance, dusted with powdered sugar, makes them an eye-catching dessert for Christmas parties or cozy family nights. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or given as thoughtful gifts, these cookies are sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a warm and inviting flavor that’s synonymous with the holiday season.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed at various occasions—holiday parties, cookie swaps, or even as a sweet treat for everyday enjoyment.
• Beautiful Presentation: The crinkle effect and powdered sugar coating give these cookies a stunning look that impresses guests.
• Freezable: You can freeze the dough or baked cookies for later enjoyment, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine your ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture in your cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 ¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (60ml) molasses
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For Coating

• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar

How to Make Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Ground ginger
3. Ground cinnamon
4. Ground cloves
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Baking soda
7. Salt

Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together:
1. Softened unsalted butter
2. Brown sugar

Use an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in:
1. Large egg
2. Molasses
3. Vanilla extract

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough. Roll each piece into a ball, then roll it in powdered sugar until fully coated.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they begin to crack on top.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies!

How to Serve Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are perfect for sharing during the holidays or any cozy gathering. Their festive flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee – The rich notes of coffee complement the warm spices in the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate – A classic pairing, hot chocolate adds a sweet touch to your cookie experience.
• Tea – A spiced chai tea enhances the ginger and cinnamon flavors.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Fruit – Fresh fruits like apples and pears offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Cheese Board – Pairing with creamy cheeses can create a delightful balance between savory and sweet.
• Ice Cream – Serving warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is simply irresistible.

For Gifting

• Gift Boxes – Present these cookies in decorative boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Holiday Treat Bags – Small bags filled with cookies make great party favors for guests.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

To achieve the best results when making Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, follow these essential tips.

• Chill the Dough – Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
• Use Fresh Spices – Ensure your ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg are fresh for optimal flavor impact.
• Measure Accurately – Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar to achieve the perfect texture.
• Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
• Coat Generously – Roll each cookie ball in powdered sugar before baking for that signature crinkle effect.
• Store Properly – Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness for days.

Best Side Dishes for Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess that balances the cookie’s richness.
2. Custard Sauce – Pouring warm custard over cookies creates a comforting dessert experience.
3. Spiced Apple Compote – The tartness of apples combined with spices mirrors the cookie flavors perfectly.
4. Nuts Mix – A crunchy mix of nuts provides texture contrast, elevating your snack time.
5. Candied Orange Peel – The citrusy sweetness pairs wonderfully with gingerbread spices.
6. Chocolate Ganache Dip – A rich chocolate dip can add an indulgent twist to your cookie enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, a few common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using cold butter – Cold butter won’t cream well with sugar, leading to dense cookies. Always use softened butter for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Too much or too little flour can ruin the cookie’s structure. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading. Don’t skip this step if you want crinkle cookies with beautiful edges.
• Overbaking – Baking for too long will make your cookies hard instead of soft. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they look slightly underbaked.
• Not using enough spices – The spices are crucial for flavor in these cookies. Make sure to use fresh, quality spices for the best results.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid on top for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies so special?

These cookies are loved for their soft texture and rich, spiced flavor profile that brings warmth and comfort during the holidays.

Can I customize the spices in my Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference, or even add extras like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.

How do I ensure my cookies come out perfectly every time?

Measure ingredients accurately, follow the recipe carefully, and pay attention to baking times. Chilling the dough is also key!

Are Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes! These cookies are perfect for holiday gifts due to their beautiful appearance and delightful taste.

Final Thoughts

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are not only delicious but also wonderfully versatile. You can customize them with different spices or toppings, making them perfect for any festive occasion. Try these cozy treats today!