Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies: 8 Steps to Cozy Bliss

Name: Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies: 8 Steps to Cozy Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar for coating

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these gingerbread crinkle cookies! They’re like little bites of holiday magic! Soft, chewy, and bursting with that warm ginger flavor that just wraps you in a cozy hug. The powdered sugar coating? It’s not just for looks—it adds a delightful sweetness that balances perfectly with the spices. I remember making these with my grandma every Christmas, and the whole house would smell like a gingerbread wonderland. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close, as they’re perfect for sharing or just savoring all by yourself. Seriously, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a memory waiting to happen!

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful gingerbread crinkle cookies:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, giving them that perfect chewy texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: This little guy helps the cookies rise and get that nice crinkle on top.
1 tablespoon ground ginger: The star of the show! It brings that spicy warmth that screams gingerbread.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: A must-have for that cozy, warm flavor—just like snuggling up with a blanket!
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a subtle depth; just a hint is all you need to elevate the spice profile.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Don’t skip this! It balances the sweetness and enhances all those lovely flavors.
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: This makes the cookies rich and adds to that soft, chewy texture. Make sure it’s nice and soft for easy creaming!
1 cup brown sugar: For that deep, caramel-like sweetness. It’s what makes these cookies irresistibly chewy!
1/2 cup molasses: The secret ingredient! It adds moisture and that classic gingerbread flavor.
1 large egg: This binds everything together and helps with that soft texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla is like a warm hug for your taste buds, rounding out all the flavors beautifully.
1 cup powdered sugar for coating: This is what gives your cookies that signature crinkle and sweet finish. It’s the cherry on top, or should I say the dusting of sugar!

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to dive into the baking adventure!

How to Prepare Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and get that lovely crinkle on top. Trust me; a properly preheated oven is the secret to achieving that perfect chewy center!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, let’s whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This blend of spices is what gives these cookies their signature flavor, so make sure everything is well combined. You want to evenly distribute the baking soda and spices throughout the flour to ensure every bite is packed with that delicious gingerbread goodness!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Now, grab another bowl and cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. I love this part because it smells amazing! You can use a hand mixer or just a good old-fashioned wooden spoon—whatever you have on hand will work. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies wonderfully soft!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to your butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. Oh, the molasses adds such a rich flavor! It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. Make sure there are no streaks left; you want a smooth, cohesive mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix—this will keep your cookies soft and chewy. You’ll notice how the dough starts to come together beautifully!

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Here comes the crucial part: chill the dough for about 30 minutes. This step is key to preventing your cookies from spreading too much while they bake. Plus, it makes the dough easier to handle. I usually pop it in the fridge, grab a cup of tea, and daydream about how delicious these cookies will be!

Step 7: Shape and Coat Cookies

Once the dough is chilled, take it out and roll it into small balls, about an inch in diameter. Then, roll each ball in powdered sugar until they’re fully coated. This is what gives your cookies that signature crinkle and sweet finish. It’s like magic!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place your cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to look set while the centers remain soft. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once they’re out of the oven, let the cookies cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring them. This helps them firm up a bit, but go ahead and sneak a taste while they’re still warm! You deserve it. These gingerbread crinkle cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored in an airtight container for later. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Now, I know you’re probably curious about what’s packed into these delightful gingerbread crinkle cookies! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per cookie:

Calories: 120
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 1g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, who’s counting when you’re enjoying such a delicious treat? Just remember to savor each bite and share the joy with friends and family!

Tips for Success

Want to take your gingerbread crinkle cookies to the next level? I’ve got some pro tips that will ensure you get the best results every time!

Use fresh spices: Spices can lose their potency over time, so make sure your ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves are fresh. This makes a big difference in flavor!
Don’t skip the chilling: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing those cookies from spreading too much. If you’re in a hurry, you can even chill them for just 15 minutes, but 30 is ideal!
Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so use the right measurements! Spoon your flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the best results.
Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and complexity. Just a little can elevate the flavors beautifully!
Watch the bake time: Every oven is a bit different, so start checking your cookies at the 10-minute mark. You want them to be soft in the center but set on the edges for that perfect chewy texture.
Enjoy them warm: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh from the oven while they’re still warm and gooey. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like that first bite!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to bake up a batch of gingerbread crinkle cookies that will impress everyone. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

Variations for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

If you’re like me, you love to mix things up in the kitchen! These gingerbread crinkle cookies are super versatile, so here are some fun variations to try out:

Chocolate Chip Gingerbread: Add a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful twist. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the spices!
Nuts Galore: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. They add a nice nuttiness that complements the ginger flavor perfectly.
Spice It Up: Want to kick up the spice level? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat or a bit of nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness. Just mix powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup and milk until smooth!
Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies: Make a creamy filling with cream cheese and powdered sugar, and sandwich it between two gingerbread crinkle cookies for a delicious treat!
Cranberry Orange: Mix in some dried cranberries and a teaspoon of orange zest for a refreshing citrus twist. It’s like a holiday celebration in every bite!

Feel free to get creative! The beauty of baking is that you can tailor these cookies to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your favorite flavor combinations!

Serving Suggestions for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

When it comes to enjoying your gingerbread crinkle cookies, the options are endless! These delightful treats pair perfectly with a variety of beverages and desserts that can enhance their warm, spicy flavors. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Hot Cocoa: Nothing beats a cozy mug of hot cocoa alongside these cookies. The rich chocolatey goodness complements the spices beautifully, making each bite even more indulgent!
Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea is a match made in heaven. The hints of cinnamon and cardamom in the tea mirror the flavors in the cookies, creating a lovely harmony.
Eggnog: If you’re feeling festive, serve these cookies with a glass of eggnog. The creamy, nutmeg-infused drink pairs perfectly with the gingerbread flavor.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful treat, try serving these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream adds a beautiful creaminess that balances the spices!
Fruit Compote: A spoonful of warm fruit compote—like apple or cranberry—served alongside your cookies adds a touch of tartness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
Cheese Plate: If you want to get a little fancy, consider pairing these cookies with a cheese plate featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie. The salty and sweet combo is simply divine!

Whichever way you choose to enjoy them, these gingerbread crinkle cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy indulging!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed your delicious gingerbread crinkle cookies, it’s important to store them properly to keep that soft, chewy texture intact. Place any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. If you’re like me, and you love to have these on hand for a cozy snack, you might want to make a double batch!

If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that warm, gooey goodness. Trust me, there’s nothing like a warm gingerbread cookie to brighten your day!

gingerbread crinkle cookies - detail 1

For more delicious recipes, check out Gingerbread Molasses Cookies or Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.