Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are the perfect festive treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. Their delightful blend of spices and molasses creates a cookie that is both soft and chewy, making them a favorite among friends and family. Not only are these cookies ideal for special occasion gatherings, but they also shine during any winter celebration or cookie decorating party. With their charming shapes and flavors, Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are sure to be a hit at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a warm and inviting taste.
• Fun for All Ages: Decorating these cookies can be a fun activity for both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Gifting: Packaged nicely, these cookies make wonderful gifts for friends and neighbors during the holidays.
• Versatile Treats: Customize the shapes and decorations to suit any event or personal preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Using the right equipment makes cookie preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Baking sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking of your cookies, preventing burnt edges.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out dough evenly for perfectly shaped cookies.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool properly, maintaining their chewy texture.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 Cup Molasses (Grandma’s brand)
• 1 Cup Butter Flavored Shortening
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 Large Egg
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
• 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 1/2 Cup Water (hot)
• 3/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 3 teaspoons Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Ginger (ground)
• 6 Cups Flour

For the Icing

• 6 Cups Powdered Sugar
• 2/3 Cups Milk
• 4 teaspoons Vanilla

How to Make Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly from the start.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Molasses
2. Butter flavored shortening
3. Sugar
4. Egg
5. Vanilla

Mix until well combined and creamy in texture.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Baking soda
2. Ground cloves
3. Cinnamon
4. Salt
5. Ginger

Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing continuously.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Slowly add flour to the dough mixture until fully combined. If needed, add hot water to help blend everything smoothly.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create gingerbread men shapes.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place your cut-out shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are firm but centers are soft.

Step 7: Cool Down

Remove from oven and let them cool on a wire rack before decorating with icing.

Enjoy creating your festive Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies!

How to Serve Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are celebrating the holidays or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies offer versatility in serving options.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the spices in gingerbread.
• Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea enhances the cookie’s ginger notes.
• Hot Chocolate: Pairing with hot chocolate creates a cozy winter experience.

As Dessert Platters

• Holiday Dessert Tray: Arrange cookies with other festive treats for a colorful display.
• Cookie Decorating Station: Provide icing and sprinkles for guests to decorate their own cookies.

Gift Giving

• Gift Boxes: Pack cookies in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in clear bags for guests to take home after gatherings.

How to Perfect Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

To ensure your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to warm up before mixing. This helps create a smooth dough.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and shapes better.
• Roll evenly: Aim for uniform thickness when rolling out the dough. This ensures even baking and consistent texture.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out.
• Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container. This maintains their chewy texture for longer periods.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cream Cheese Frosting – A rich and tangy spread that adds creaminess to each bite of cookie.
2. Fruit Compote – A sweet-tart fruit mixture that complements the spices in gingerbread nicely.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ sweetness.
4. Apple Sauce – Serve warm apple sauce alongside cookies for a comforting pairing.
5. Chocolate Dipping Sauce – Melted chocolate provides a decadent option for dipping your cookies.
6. Whipped Cream – Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delightful texture alongside the dense cookie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies can be a fun experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect measurements: Always use precise measurements for your ingredients. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of guessing to ensure consistent results.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much during baking. Chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out.
• Using old spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor. Check expiration dates on your ground spices, especially ginger and cinnamon, and replace them if they’re past their prime.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven for at least 10-15 minutes before baking your cookies.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be soft when you take them out, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months.
• You can also freeze unbaked dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Reheating Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 1 minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies.

Can I use different spices in my Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or allspice to customize the flavor profile of your cookies.

What type of flour is best for Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe. It gives the right texture without making the dough too dense.

How can I decorate my Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?

You can use icing made from powdered sugar and milk or melted chocolate. Add colorful sprinkles or edible decorations for extra flair!

Are Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free versions, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend that has xanthan gum included.

Final Thoughts

These Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With their delightful spice blend and chewy texture, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. You can customize these cookies with various decorations or flavors, making them versatile enough for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the holiday spirit!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with these delightful Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies. Perfectly spiced with a blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these cookies boast a soft and chewy texture that’s sure to enchant family and friends during the holiday season. The simple process makes them an ideal baking project for both beginners and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re hosting a cookie decorating party or looking for a charming gift to share, these cookies are versatile enough for any celebration.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 Cup Molasses
• 1 Cup Butter Flavored Shortening
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 Large Egg
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
• 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 1/2 Cup Water (hot)
• 3/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 3 teaspoons Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Ginger (ground)
• 6 Cups Flour
• 6 Cups Powdered Sugar
• 2/3 Cups Milk
• 4 teaspoons Vanilla

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together molasses, butter flavored shortening, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
3. In another bowl, mix baking soda, ground cloves, cinnamon, salt, and ginger; gradually add to the wet mixture.
4. Incorporate flour slowly until combined; add hot water if needed.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick; cut into shapes.
6. Bake on lined baking sheets for about 10 minutes until edges are firm but centers are soft.
7. Cool on wire racks before decorating.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 5mg