If you’ve been searching for a cozy treat that truly captures the spirit of the season, look no further than this Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe. These cookies bring joy with every bite—soft, tender centers meet the perfect crackled powdered sugar exterior, while warming spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a sweet, spiced delight, this recipe delivers a comforting and festive experience that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe is a breeze when you have these simple yet essential ingredients at hand. Each one plays a key role—from the aromatic spices that create the signature flavor to the brown sugar and molasses that bring moisture and depth, and finally the powdered sugar that gives the cookies their iconic crackled look.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base for the dough with just the right texture.
- 2 tsp ground ginger: This gives the cookies their bold and spicy ginger punch.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle sweetness to balance the ginger.
- ½ tsp ground cloves: Deepens the spicy profile, adding a hint of earthiness.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg: Brings aromatic complexity that rounds out the flavors.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened): Responsible for the soft, tender texture and richness.
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture, chewiness, and that classic molasses undertone.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s delicate structure.
- ¼ cup molasses: Imparts deep, dark sweetness and those unmistakable gingerbread notes.
- Powdered sugar for coating: Creates the signature crinkle effect and a sweet finishing touch.
How to Make Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking. In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This step ensures all your spices are evenly distributed, providing consistent flavor in every cookie.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and creamy. This process is key because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that soft and tender bite we all crave in a gingerbread crinkle cookie.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Next, add your egg, molasses, and vanilla extract (if you’re using it) into the creamed butter and sugar. Beat the mixture until everything is fully combined. The molasses is what gives the cookies their rich, deep flavor and a lovely dark color that’s absolutely inviting.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry flour and spice mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing here can lead to tough cookies. You want to stop mixing once you no longer see flour.
Step 5: Roll and Coat in Powdered Sugar
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, generously coat each ball in powdered sugar. This powdery layer is not just for looks—it melts slightly during baking and cracks beautifully, creating the iconic gingerbread crinkle cookie appearance.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your coated dough balls on the parchment-lined sheet, spaced well apart, and bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. The cookies should puff up and crack on the tops, revealing the stunning crinkles. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delightful on their own, elevating their presentation is fun and easy. Consider a light dusting of extra powdered sugar just before serving for that fresh “snow-kissed” look. You could also drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top for a touch of indulgence that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
Side Dishes
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced tea, chai latte, or a rich hot chocolate. Serve alongside a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort food combo that’s perfect for chilly days or festively sweet gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your cookies the centerpiece of a holiday cookie platter by arranging them with other festive treats like peppermint bark, sugar cookies, and candied nuts. You can also stack them in a decorative tin or wrap a small batch in parchment tied with festive ribbon to give as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and flavorful for up to a week, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season or any time you need a comforting cookie fix.
Freezing
If you want to keep these cookies fresh for longer, freezing is a great option. Arrange the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen or stored cookies, warm them briefly in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This gentle reheating revives their soft texture and fresh-baked flavor without drying them out, bringing back the magic of baking day.
FAQs
Can I substitute the spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg are traditional and create that signature gingerbread flavor, you can adjust the spices to your liking. Adding cardamom or allspice can give an interesting twist, but be sure to keep the balance so the cookies stay soft and flavorful.
Why do the cookies crack during baking?
The powdered sugar coating causes the dough to dry slightly and form cracks as the cookies expand and bake. This is a hallmark of crinkle cookies and means your cookies are perfectly baked with tender centers and a beautiful textured surface.
Can I use light molasses instead of regular?
Yes, light molasses will work in the recipe, but it will produce slightly milder flavor and lighter color. For that rich, deep gingerbread taste, regular unsulfured molasses is preferred, but feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand.
How do I keep these cookies soft for longer?
Storing the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread can help maintain softness by keeping moisture balanced. The bread’s moisture transfers to the cookies while preventing them from becoming too dry or hard.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Chilling the dough actually helps develop flavors and makes rolling the dough balls easier.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about baking a batch of Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe. From the rich, inviting aroma to the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this recipe never fails to bring smiles and cozy moments. I can’t recommend it enough if you want a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. So grab your ingredients and let this delightful recipe fill your kitchen and heart with joy!
Print
Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a delightful holiday treat with warm spices and a sweet molasses depth. They feature a tender, chewy texture with a crackled powdered sugar coating that adds a festive look and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Coating
- Powdered sugar, for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and light in color, creating a smooth base for your cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture until fully combined, ensuring a homogeneous batter.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
- Form and Coat Dough Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in powdered sugar, coating entirely to give the cookies their signature crackled tops.
- Bake Cookies: Arrange the coated dough balls spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until the cookies have spread, cracked on top, and the edges begin to set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack or serving. This helps them set properly and maintain softness.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ground spices to enhance the flavor.
- Do not overbake; the cookies should be soft in the middle.
- Storing cookies in an airtight container will maintain their softness for several days.
- Molasses can be substituted with dark corn syrup if needed, but molasses gives the authentic flavor.
- Chilling dough for 15-30 minutes before rolling can help reduce spreading if desired.
