Deliciously decorated Gingerbread Men cookies ready for the holiday season

Gingerbread Men Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Gingerbread Men are not just delicious; they also bring a sense of joy and festive spirit to any occasion. These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, baking sessions with kids, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea. Their spicy-sweet flavor and charming shape make them a favorite among both young and old. Plus, the smell of gingerbread baking fills your kitchen with warmth and cheer!

how to make Gingerbread Men

Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour (plain/all purpose)
  • 3 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp ground ginger
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp mixed spice (Note 1)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves (Note 2)
  • 85g / 5 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened) (Note 3)
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark brown) (Note 4)
  • 1 large egg (at room temperature) (Note 5)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup molasses (light / true) (NOT blackstrap) (Note 6)

Directions

  1. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, mixed spice, and cloves.
  2. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together using a stand mixer or electric beater on speed 7 for about 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
  3. Egg & Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla to the creamed mixture, mixing on speed 5 until everything is combined (about 30 seconds).
  4. Molasses: Add in the molasses, mixing for 1 minute on speed 2.
  5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly add about 1/4 of the dry ingredients, mixing until you can’t see any flour. Start on speed 1 to avoid flour flying everywhere! Repeat this step until all dry ingredients are combined, then mix for an additional 15 seconds. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
  6. Refrigerate: Pat the dough into a disc shape, wrap it in cling wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for 3 months.
  7. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F/190°C (170°C fan) and set a shelf in the middle. Line 3 baking trays with parchment paper.
  8. Prepare the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and cut it in half. Wrap one half and return it to the fridge.
  9. Roll Out: Lightly dust a sheet of baking paper with flour. Place the dough on top and sprinkle with a bit more flour. Cover with another sheet of baking paper and roll the dough out to about 1/6" thick. If the paper wrinkles, peel it off and smooth it back down.
  10. Cut Out Shapes: Use a gingerbread cookie cutter to cut out gingerbread men shapes, pressing firmly to cut all the way through. If the dough sticks to the cutter, dip it in flour.
  11. Transfer: Using a palette knife or large knife, transfer the shapes onto the baking sheet. Place about 6 on the first sheet and tidy the edges if needed.
  12. Bake Tray 1: Bake for 12 minutes for classic light golden gingerbread or 14 minutes for darker, crispier cookies. Then remove and let them cool completely on the tray.
  13. Repeat: Gather the scraps of dough, press them together, and roll out again. If the dough becomes sticky, return it to the refrigerator. Continue rolling, cutting, and baking until you have about 18 to 20 gingerbread men in total.
  14. Trays 2 & 3: Fill and bake the second and third trays, again working one tray at a time for the best workflow.
  15. Decorate: Let the cookies cool completely on the trays, then decorate them with royal icing for a fun finishing touch!

how to serve Gingerbread Men

Gingerbread Men are best served fresh and decorated. You can present them on a festive plate or include them in gift baskets during the holidays. They also make great treats for parties or Christmas cookie exchanges!

how to store Gingerbread Men

Once cooled and decorated, store your Gingerbread Men in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week this way. If you’ve made extra cookies, they can also be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Gingerbread Men

  • Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
  • Keep the dough cold; if it becomes warm while rolling out, it can be harder to cut shapes.
  • Experiment with decorations! Use candies, icing, or even chocolate to add your personal touch.

variation

For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips to the dough or using other cookie cutters to create shapes for different occasions!

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture and flavor may be a bit different. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balanced result.

2. How can I make my Gingerbread Men more flavorful?
You can increase the spices, such as ginger or cinnamon, according to your taste preference. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the flavor.

3. Can I decorate my Gingerbread Men with icing?
Absolutely! Royal icing is perfect for decorating and adds a sweet touch. Allow the cookies to cool completely before icing them to ensure the decorations stick well.