Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are the perfect holiday treat that everyone will love. These cookies are not only deliciously spiced but also offer a unique chewy texture that makes them stand out. Ideal for festive gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply enjoying at home, they bring the warmth of holiday baking to any occasion. With their inviting aroma and delightful flavor, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor – A perfect blend of spices like cinnamon and ginger creates a warm, inviting taste.
• Flexible Decor – These cookies are great for decorating, making them fun for families with kids or at holiday parties.
• Perfect for Gifting – Pack them in festive boxes or tins for a charming homemade gift.
• Great for Any Occasion – While they’re especially popular during the holidays, these cookies can be enjoyed year-round.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl – Essential for combining all your cookie ingredients evenly to create the perfect dough.
• Rolling pin – Helps achieve an even thickness in the cookie dough for consistent baking.
• Cookie cutters – Necessary for shaping your dough into festive gingerbread men and other fun shapes.
• Cooling rack – Allows cookies to cool properly without becoming soggy from steam.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 Cup Molasses (Grandma’s brand)
• 1 Cup Butter Flavored Shortening
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 Large Egg
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
• 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 1/2 Cup Water (hot)
• 3/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 3 teaspoons Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Ginger (ground)
• 6 Cups Flour

For the Icing

• 6 Cups Powdered Sugar
• 2/3 Cups Milk
• 4 teaspoons Vanilla

How to Make Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The molasses,
2. Butter flavored shortening,
3. Sugar,
4. Egg,
5. Vanilla.

Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Baking soda,
2. Ground cloves,
3. Cinnamon,
4. Salt,
5. Ginger,
6. Flour.

Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while continuously stirring.

Step 4: Add Water

Pour in the hot water and mix until you achieve a soft dough consistency.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to shape your cookies as desired.

Step 6: Bake

Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for about 10 minutes or until they slightly firm up around the edges.

Step 7: Cool

Remove from oven and let cool on racks before decorating with icing made from powdered sugar mixed with milk and vanilla.

Enjoy your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies!

How to Serve Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are a delightful treat that can brighten any holiday gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will surely impress your guests.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee or Tea: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy the festive flavors together by dipping your cookies into rich hot chocolate.

As Part of Dessert Platters

• Holiday Dessert Tray: Arrange your gingerbread cookies alongside other festive treats for a colorful display.
• Cookie Decorating Station: Set up a station with icing and toppings, allowing guests to personalize their cookies.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Festive Packaging: Place the cookies in decorative bags or boxes as sweet gifts for friends and family.
• Personalized Tags: Add custom tags to your cookie gifts for a personal touch during the holidays.

How to Perfect Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

To ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture for your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before baking. This helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies chewy.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. Too much flour can make your cookies dry.
• Bake at the Right Temperature: Preheat your oven properly. Baking at too low a temperature may lead to undercooked centers.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be soft in the center when removed from the oven.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance flavor, ensuring each bite is packed with warmth and aroma.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies can be complemented perfectly by various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider serving alongside them.

1. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, fluffy texture that balances out the spices in the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast and can enhance the overall sweetness of your dessert table.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly soft cheeses like brie, pairs nicely with spiced cookies, offering a savory element.
4. Nut Mix: A mix of nuts adds crunch and complements the chewy texture of gingerbread.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fruits and granola for a healthy side that contrasts beautifully with sweet cookies.
6. Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider as a comforting drink option that echoes the flavors in your gingerbread treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common missteps that can impact the final product.

• Boldly skip the chilling step: Not refrigerating the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill the dough for at least an hour before baking.
• Boldly overlook ingredient measurements: Using too much flour or sugar can change the texture. Measure ingredients accurately using proper tools.
• Boldly ignore mixing times: Overmixing can create tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a chewy texture.
• Boldly rush cooling time: Removing cookies from the oven too soon will result in soft centers. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
• Boldly forget decoration: Skipping the icing can make your cookies less festive. Get creative with your decorations for a cheerful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies.

What makes Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies chewy?

The combination of butter flavored shortening and the right amount of flour helps achieve a soft and chewy texture.

Can I use different spices in my Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?

Yes, you can customize your spice blend! Try adding nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor twist.

How do I decorate my Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?

Use royal icing or fondant to decorate. You can also add sprinkles or edible glitter for extra flair!

Can I substitute any ingredients in Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace butter-flavored shortening with coconut oil or use alternative flours like almond flour if needed.

Final Thoughts

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices and decorations, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe and share it with friends and family — they are sure to be a hit!

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Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of baking Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies, a beloved holiday treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. These cookies boast a perfectly spiced flavor profile, combining the vibrant notes of ginger and cinnamon with a unique chewy texture that sets them apart. They are not only irresistible on their own but also offer endless opportunities for decorating, making them a fun activity for families and friends. Ideal for festive occasions or cozy nights at home, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite, perfect for gifting or as a centerpiece on your dessert table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 Cup Molasses
• 1 Cup Butter Flavored Shortening
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 Large Egg
• 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 6 Cups Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
• 1/2 Cup Water (hot)
• 3/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 3 teaspoons Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Ginger (ground)
• 6 Cups Powdered Sugar
• 2/3 Cups Milk
• 4 teaspoons Vanilla

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine molasses, butter flavored shortening, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together baking soda, ground cloves, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and flour. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
4. Pour in hot water and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
6. Bake on prepared sheets for about 10 minutes until edges are firm. Cool before decorating.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg