Classic Gingerbread Cookies That Actually Hold Their Shape

Classic Gingerbread Cookies That Actually Hold Their Shape

A fool-proof recipe for perfectly spiced, non-spreading gingerbread cookies that keep their crisp edges while staying soft in the middle.

KEY INFO:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ 2 hours chilling)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 24-30 cookies
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dietary: Vegetarian (Vegan options provided)

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Large mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper/silicone mat
• Wire cooling rack

Alternative: No mixer? Use a wooden spoon and firm butter

INGREDIENTS:

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp allspice

Wet Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) dark brown sugar
• 2/3 cup (160ml) unsulphured molasses
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD:

1. Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Whisk thoroughly to distribute spices evenly.
2. Beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes – don’t skip this step!)
3. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla. Mix until well combined, scraping bowl sides.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients until dough forms. Don’t overmix.
5. Divide dough in half, wrap in plastic, flatten to 1-inch discs.
6. Chill for minimum 2 hours or overnight.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F/175°C. Line baking sheets.
8. Roll dough between parchment to 1/4 inch thickness.
9. Cut shapes, transfer to baking sheets. Re-chill scraps before re-rolling.
10. Bake 8-10 minutes until edges are set but centers slightly soft.

CRUCIAL TIPS:

• Chill dough thoroughly – warm dough = spreading cookies
• Don’t skip creaming butter/sugar – creates structure
• Roll between parchment to prevent sticking
• Watch for golden edges – don’t overbake

STORAGE & VARIATIONS:

Storage:

• Room temperature: 1 week in airtight container
• Freezer: 3 months, separated by parchment

Scaling:

• Recipe doubles well
• Maintain same chill time
• Work in batches for consistent results

Common Mistakes:

• Using hot butter
• Skipping chill time
• Rolling too thin
• Overbaking

Variations:

• Add orange zest for citrus kick
• Drizzle with dark chocolate
• Sandwich with cream cheese filling
• Vegan: Use flax egg + vegan butter