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Thick & Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Deliciously soft and chewy gingerbread cookies, perfect for holiday baking and decorating.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Spoon the flour into the measuring cup to avoid compacting.
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger The star spice, providing warmth and flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon Adds depth and sweetness.
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground cloves For that extra festive kick.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
Wet Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed Gives the cookies their rich sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup molasses A must-have for that signature gingerbread taste.
  • 1 large egg Binds everything together.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For a hint of sweetness and aroma.
For Decorating
  • Royal icing Optional, for festive decoration.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and packed brown sugar together on medium speed until creamy—about 2 minutes.
  3. Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is combined smoothly.
  4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a thick dough forms.
  5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the baking sheets or line them with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread man shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them; edges should be firm while centers remain soft.
  10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Decorate with royal icing or enjoy them plain.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to one week. Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.