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Christmas cookie exchange recipes - Image 3

Classic Gingerbread Cookies

These classic gingerbread cookies are perfect for a Christmas cookie exchange. With a warm, spicy flavor and soft texture, they're a holiday favorite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.75 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1.75 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
  • 0.75 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup molasses
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Rolling pin
  • Cookie cutters
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
  2. In another bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a softer cookie, bake for the minimum time suggested.
• Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent tough cookies.
• Serve with a cup of hot cocoa for a festive treat.
Food Safety:
• Ensure eggs are fresh and properly stored to avoid contamination.
• Store baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.