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Soft Chew Gingerbread Men Cookies

Delicious soft and chewy gingerbread cookies, perfect for the holidays or any day, with a comforting blend of spices and a gentle sweetness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger Use fresh jarred spice for the best warm bite.
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon Adds that homey warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Use unsalted so you control the salt.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Packed, for deeper molasses notes.
  • 1/2 cup molasses Dark molasses gives richer flavor.
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration
  • Icing Optional for decoration.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and mix well.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  3. Cut out gingerbread men shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers still feel slightly soft.
  5. Let cool on a wire rack and decorate with icing if desired.

Notes

Make the dough the night before and chill overnight; let hard dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes if needed. Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth, or swap half the molasses for honey.