Frosted Gingerbread
Frosted Gingerbread is the perfect treat that captures the warmth and spice of the holiday season. These delightful cookies are not only simple to make but also burst with flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive gathering or simply to enjoy at home, Frosted Gingerbread is sure to please everyone.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 1.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 22 grams
Fat: 6 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams
Sugar: 8 grams
Sodium: 80 mg
Why Make Frosted Gingerbread
Frosted Gingerbread is not only a delicious treat but also a wonderful way to incorporate spices known for their health benefits, such as ginger and cinnamon. These flavors are invigorating and comforting, making them perfect for chilly days. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable—you can easily adjust the spices, swap out the frosting, or add in your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Making Frosted Gingerbread can be a fun family activity during the holidays that everyone can partake in!
How to Make Frosted Gingerbread Step by Step
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, then add molasses and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by beating softened butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable.
- Once the gingerbread cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting over each cookie.
How to Serve Frosted Gingerbread
Frosted Gingerbread cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a more festive touch, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. You could also add a side of fresh fruit or a fruit compote to balance out the sweetness.
How to Store Frosted Gingerbread
To maintain their freshness, store Frosted Gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the un-frosted cookies. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a zip-lock bag for up to three months. You can frost them right after thawing, ensuring that they taste freshly made.
Expert Tips for Cooking Frosted Gingerbread
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in cookies.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling if it seems too sticky, making it easier to handle.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and consistent baking.
- Adjust the spices based on your taste preferences—feel free to add more ginger for a stronger flavor!
- Don’t skip the frosting; it adds a creamy sweetness that complements the spicy cookies perfectly.
Delicious Variations of Frosted Gingerbread
- For a spicier kick, add extra ginger or a hint of cayenne pepper.
- Incorporate zest from oranges or lemons for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Substitute the frosting with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a lighter option.
Frosted Gingerbread cookies are a must-try this season! With their rich flavors and delightful frosting, they are sure to become a favorite. Get your family involved and enjoy the warm, inviting scents of these cookies baking in your kitchen. You’ll love their taste and ease of preparation. Give this recipe a try and make your holidays even sweeter!
Frosted Gingerbread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, then add molasses and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by beating softened butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable.
- Once the gingerbread cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting over each cookie.
