Name: Frosted Gingerbread Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour ((360g)); 2.5 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves; 0.75 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 6 ounces unsalted butter (room temperature (170g)); 0.75 cup granulated sugar ((150g)); 0.75 cup light brown sugar (packed (156g)); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 0.25 cup molasses (mild); 4 ounces block-style full-fat cream cheese (softened to room temperature (113g)); 0.25 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 2 cups confectioners' sugar (sifted); 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Sprinkles (optional)

Introduction to Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Why Frosted Gingerbread Cookies are a Must-Bake?

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of gingerbread cookies wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Perfectly spiced and kissed with sweetness, frosted gingerbread cookies embody the essence of the holiday season. They are not just cookies; they’re a canvas for creativity, a treat that brings joy, and a delightful way to celebrate with friends and family.

Imagine gathering with loved ones, sipping on hot cocoa, and decorating these beautiful, golden-brown gems. The richness of molasses, coupled with the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, makes for a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and comforting. A simple touch of creamy frosting elevates them from ordinary to extraordinary, making them perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in.

Plus, who can resist the chance to unleash their inner artist with colorful sprinkles and frosting designs? Whether you choose to shape them into festive figures or classic circles, these cookies are a versatile and cherished addition to any holiday spread. Learn more about the origins of these delicious treats on resources like The Smithsonian’s website, which details the history of gingerbread cookies. With this recipe, you’re not only baking; you’re making memories. So, let’s dive into creating these delectable sweets!

Ingredients for Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Creating delightful frosted gingerbread cookies starts with choosing the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you'll need for both the cookies and the frosting, ensuring you have a festive treat perfect for any occasion!

Essential Ingredients for the Cookies

To make a batch of soft and chewy gingerbread cookies, gather the following ingredients:

All-purpose flour (3 cups) – The foundation of your cookie dough.
Ground spices – Including ginger (2.5 teaspoons), cinnamon (1 teaspoon), and cloves (¼ teaspoon) for that warm, festive flavor.
Baking soda (¾ teaspoon) and salt (½ teaspoon) – Essential for leavening and balance.
Unsalted butter (6 ounces) – Used at room temperature for a creamy base.
Sugars – Both granulated (¾ cup) and packed light brown sugar (¾ cup) contribute sweetness and moisture.
Vanilla extract, eggs, and molasses (¼ cup) – These enrich flavor and texture.

Key Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Frosting

The frosting is where the magic happens! Here’s what you’ll need:

Cream cheese (4 ounces) – A must-have for that tangy flavor.
Unsalted butter (¼ cup) – Also at room temperature for easy blending.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon) – This enhances the taste.
Confectioners' sugar (2 cups) – For sweetness and smooth texture.
Fresh lemon juice (2 teaspoons) and lemon zest (1 teaspoon) – These add a zesty touch, balancing the sweetness.
Sprinkles – Optional, but who can resist a little extra color?

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to whip up a batch of frosted gingerbread cookies that will impress your friends and family! For extra tips on baking techniques, check out resources from King Arthur Baking.

Step-by-step Preparation of Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Making your own frosted gingerbread cookies can be a delightful experience, especially during the holiday season. Follow these simple steps to create a batch that’s soft, chewy, and topped with a delicious cream cheese frosting.

Gather Your Ingredients

First things first—let's gather all your ingredients! For the gingerbread cookies, you’ll need:

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
2 and ½ teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¾ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
6 ounces (170g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¾ cup (156g) light brown sugar (packed)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs (room temperature)
¼ cup molasses (mild)

For the creamy frosting, gather:

4 ounces (113g) full-fat cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups confectioners' sugar (sifted)
2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Sprinkles (optional)

Whisk the Dry Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it ensures the spices are evenly distributed, bringing out that nice ginger flavor.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

Next, it's time to grab your stand mixer! In the mixer bowl, add the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy—about two minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to make sure everything’s incorporated.

Beat in the Eggs and Molasses

Now, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the molasses until it's smooth. This is where your dough starts to take on that rich, dark color.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Over-mixing can result in tough cookies, so be gentle!

Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least two hours (or even overnight). Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

Roll the chilled dough into 2-inch balls and place them on the baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Lightly press down in the center of each ball before baking for 9-10 minutes or until they are puffy and lightly golden.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting. In a clean mixer bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the sifted confectioners' sugar, then mix in the lemon juice and zest. This adds a lovely tang to balance the sweetness.

Frost the Cookies and Add Sprinkles

Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting over each one. Add sprinkles for that extra festive touch, if desired.

Serve your delicious frosted gingerbread cookies at your next gathering or simply enjoy them at home. No matter the occasion, these cookies are sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!

Variations on Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Gluten-Free Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Craving frosted gingerbread cookies but need to avoid gluten? No problem! You can swap out traditional all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for that perfect chewy texture. With spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves still shining through, your gluten-free cookies will be just as delightful as their classic counterparts. If you need help sourcing a good gluten-free flour, check out this resource.

Chocolate-Dipped Gingerbread Cookies

For a decadent twist, try making chocolate-dipped frosted gingerbread cookies. After frosting your cookies, melt some quality dark chocolate and dip the edges in for an indulgent finish. It adds a beautiful contrast to the spices and sweetness of the frosting, creating a cookie that’s perfect for both a holiday treat and a fancy dessert. Who wouldn’t want to impress with this unique flavor combo? Give it a try and enjoy a delightful combination that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

To ensure your frosted gingerbread cookies are tender yet chewy, make sure to accurately measure your flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. Overmeasuring can lead to a dense cookie! Allow the dough to chill for at least two hours—this step is crucial for preventing spreading and achieving that classic gingerbread texture. Lastly, keep an eye on baking time; slightly underbaking will give you that soft center!

How to Store Leftover Cookies

If you find yourself with leftover cookies—lucky you!—store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, you can separate layers of cookies with parchment paper. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just ensure they are fully cooled before sealing them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, and frost as desired! For more tips on cookie storage, check out resources like Food Safety for best practices.

Serving Suggestions for Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Pairing with Hot Beverages

The ultimate comfort food experience! Enjoy your frosted gingerbread cookies alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or creamy hot chocolate. The rich flavors of these beverages beautifully complement the deep, spiced taste of the cookies, creating a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for winter gatherings. For an added touch, try dunking your cookie in the drink—after all, doesn't everyone love a bit of cookie dunking fun?

Festive Presentation Ideas

Make your frosted gingerbread cookies shine at holiday gatherings! Arrange them on a decorative platter, stacked high for a dramatic effect, or place them in clear treat bags tied with festive ribbons. To elevate your presentation, try adding a sprinkle of edible glitter or a playful assortment of colored sprinkles. The visual appeal will make them a delightful centerpiece for any dessert table—who can resist those cute little gingerbread shapes?

Time Breakdown for Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Creating these delightful frosted gingerbread cookies is not only rewarding but also quite simple with a little planning. Here's a quick breakdown to help you manage your time effectively.

Preparation Time

You'll need about 20 minutes for prepping the cookie dough. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing them together.

Baking Time

Baking each batch will take around 10 minutes. If you're making multiple trays, allow some extra time for the cookies to cool before frosting.

Chilling Time

Don’t skip the chilling period! The dough should chill for at least 2 hours (or up to a full day) for the best texture and flavor.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at approximately 30 minutes for active cooking time, plus chilling time. Make sure to plan ahead so your frosted gingerbread cookies are ready when you need them!

For more baking tips, consider checking out resources like King Arthur Baking where you'll find a wealth of baking science and advice.

Nutritional Facts for Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

Calories

Each delightful serving of frosted gingerbread cookies typically contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the size and the amount of frosting applied. This makes them a perfect treat for a sweet occasion without overindulging.

Sugar Content

With a mix of granulated and brown sugars, each cookie has approximately 10 grams of sugar. For a little perspective, that’s about 2.5 teaspoons, balancing indulgence with a satisfying bite.

Protein

You can expect around 2 grams of protein per frosted gingerbread cookie thanks to the inclusion of eggs and the cream cheese frosting. While not a significant source, it helps add a touch of nutrition to your festive treat!

For more detailed nutritional insights, visit resources like the USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData to deepen your understanding of ingredients' health benefits!

FAQs about Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

How can I make my gingerbread cookies soft?

To ensure your frosted gingerbread cookies remain soft and chewy, avoid overbaking them. You want them to be slightly soft in the center when they come out of the oven; they will continue to firm up as they cool. Another tip is to store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—this will keep them moist and help maintain that irresistible chewy texture.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze your frosted gingerbread cookies for up to three months. For the best results, freeze them without frosting on a baking sheet first until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost as desired.

What are some alternatives to cream cheese frosting?

If cream cheese frosting isn’t your thing, there are plenty of alternatives! Consider a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for a lighter option, or try a chocolate ganache for a rich twist. Buttercream or royal icing also work great if you're looking for something sweeter. Each option pairs beautifully with the flavorful gingerbread! For more ideas, check out this frosting guide.

Conclusion on Frosted Gingerbread Cookies

In summary, frosted gingerbread cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their soft, chewy texture combined with creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Whether you're enjoying a cozy evening at home or celebrating with friends, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Happy baking!