Gingerbread cookies are a holiday classic, but achieving that perfect chewy texture can be tricky. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll have irresistibly soft and flavorful cookies that will steal the show. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to delight!
Ingredients for Chewy Gingerbread Cookies
Before starting, gather these essentials:
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
½ cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Guide
Mix the Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of spices throughout your cookies.
Cream Butter and Sugar In a separate large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for that chewy texture.
Add Wet Ingredients Mix in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined—overmixing can make your cookies tough!
Chill the Dough Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilled dough is easier to work with and helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Shape the Cookies Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake to Perfection Bake for 8-10 minutes. The cookies should be set around the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Chewy Gingerbread Cookies
Use Brown Sugar: The molasses in brown sugar adds moisture, which enhances chewiness.
Don’t Overbake: The cookies will continue to bake on the hot sheet after removal. Take them out when they look slightly underdone.
Chill the Dough: This step prevents spreading and ensures thick, chewy cookies.
Add a Touch of Cornstarch: If you prefer extra softness, substitute 1 tablespoon of flour with cornstarch.
Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain their softness.
These chewy gingerbread cookies are the perfect mix of holiday spice and soft goodness. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share with loved ones!
Save this post to refer back during the holidays or any time you crave a comforting treat.
Gingerbread Cookies Recipe No Chill: A Step-by-Step Guide for Effortless Baking
