Gingerbread cookies, with their warm spices and inviting aroma, are a holiday classic. But what if you crave that festive flavor without the lengthy chilling and rolling process? This Quick Gingerbread Cookie Recipe delivers all the comforting goodness of traditional gingerbread in a fraction of the time. Perfect for busy bakers or last-minute holiday baking, these cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor.
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The Easiest Gingerbread Cookie Recipe Ever
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves gingerbread but feels intimidated by complicated doughs and intricate decorating. It skips the chilling step, meaning you can go straight from mixing to baking, making it ideal for spontaneous baking sessions or when you need a quick treat. I remember one Christmas Eve when I realized I’d forgotten to make cookies for Santa. Panic set in until I remembered this recipe. Within an hour, I had a plate of perfectly spiced gingerbread cookies ready to go. They were a hit with Santa (or at least I assume they were, judging by the empty plate!). This quick gingerbread cookie recipe is my secret weapon for holiday baking.
Ingredients for Speedy Gingerbread Cookies
This streamlined recipe uses pantry staples you probably already have on hand, making it even more convenient. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Ingredients for Quick Gingerbread Cookies
Mixing and Baking Your Quick Gingerbread Cookies
The beauty of this quick gingerbread cookie recipe lies in its simplicity. No chilling, no rolling pins, just pure baking joy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Similar to simple baking recipes, this recipe prioritizes ease and efficiency without compromising on flavor. These cookies are soft and chewy, perfect for enjoying with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa. For those looking for festive holiday treats, this quick gingerbread cookie recipe, along with our easy holiday cookies recipe, will be your go-to guide.
Decorating Your Quick Gingerbread Cookies
While these cookies are delicious on their own, decorating them adds a festive touch and is a fun activity for all ages. You can use simple icing, sprinkles, or even candies to create your own unique designs. Get creative and have fun with it!
“Decorating gingerbread cookies is a beloved tradition in my family,” says renowned pastry chef, Amelia Dupont. “It’s a wonderful way to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your holiday baking.”
For those seeking festive baking inspiration, you’ll find delightful ideas in our best christmas baking collection. If you’re inclined towards classic fruit desserts, our best apple pie recipes offer a delightful array of options. And for those looking for gluten-free options, our best gluten free cinnamon roll recipes will surely satisfy your cravings.
Conclusion: Quick and Delicious Gingerbread Cookies
This quick gingerbread cookie recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create delicious and festive treats. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s the perfect solution for busy bakers and last-minute holiday baking. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of gingerbread in a flash!
Plate of Quick Gingerbread Cookies
FAQ
- Can I freeze the gingerbread cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it completely before baking.
- How long do the cookies stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to a week.
- Can I use different spices? Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or allspice.
- What can I use instead of molasses? Dark corn syrup or maple syrup can be substituted, but the flavor will be slightly different.
- Can I make these cookies vegan? There are vegan substitutes for eggs and butter that can be used, but the texture might vary slightly.
- Can I roll out the dough and use cookie cutters? While this recipe is designed for drop cookies, you can try rolling out the dough. You may need to add a bit more flour to prevent sticking.
- My cookies are too hard. What went wrong? They might have been overbaked. Check them a minute or two early next time.
