Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the perfect holiday treat, bursting with warm spices and rich molasses flavor. Their crinkled, powdered sugar-coated exterior gives way to a soft, chewy interior that’s irresistibly festive. These cookies are easy to make, full of cozy spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, and offer a beautiful, snow-dusted appearance perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Brown sugar (packed)
• Molasses
• Large egg
• Vanilla extract
• Granulated sugar (for rolling)
• Powdered sugar (for rolling)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Cover and chill the dough for at least 1 hour to firm up.
7. Scoop out small portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
8. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar to coat thoroughly.
9. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set, and the centers are slightly soft.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: Around 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of black pepper for a subtle heat.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over cooled cookies for extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the dough balls (before rolling in sugar) for up to 2 months. Thaw slightly, roll in sugars, and bake.
• Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature; reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.

Why do my cookies not crinkle?

Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and roll generously in powdered sugar.

Can I skip the granulated sugar before rolling in powdered sugar?

While not mandatory, rolling in granulated sugar helps the powdered sugar adhere better and enhances the crinkle effect.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Avoid overbaking and store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I use blackstrap molasses?

Blackstrap molasses is more robust and bitter. For a milder flavor, regular molasses is recommended.

Are these cookies spicy?

They have a warm, spiced flavor but are not overly spicy. Adjust the spices to your preference.

Can I freeze baked cookies?

Yes, freeze cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

What type of flour works best?

All-purpose flour is ideal, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Yes, but add them sparingly to maintain the classic crinkle texture.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances the crinkle effect.

Conclusion

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a festive, flavorful addition to any holiday celebration. Their beautiful crinkled appearance, warm spices, and chewy texture make them a standout on any cookie platter. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they’re sure to become a holiday favorite for years to come.

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