The Ultimate Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe

The scent of gingerbread always takes me back to childhood holidays spent in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. It was always a flurry of flour, sugar, and spices as we prepped for our family gatherings. This year, I wanted to recreate that magic with a twist, and that’s how my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies were born.

These cookies are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly fun to make. With a prep time of just 30 minutes, plus chilling, and a 12-minute bake, you can have these festive treats ready in approximately 3 hours. Let’s bake some memories together with these delightful Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies!

Alexa

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Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe

The scent of gingerbread always takes me back to childhood holidays spent in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. This year, I wanted to recreate that magic with a twist, and that’s how my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies were born.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 192

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 g)
• 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar (150 g)
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (170 g or 1 1/2 sticks), softened, but still cool, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3/4 cup unsulphured molasses ((not blackstrap)) (180 ml)
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar (60 g)

Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment Paper
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric Mixer
• Cookie Scoop
• Food Scale

Method

 

1. With an electric mixer (either hand or stand) stir together the flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt at low speed until combined, about 20 seconds. Stop the mixer and add the butter pieces. Mix at medium-low speed until the mixture is sandy and resembles fine meal, about 1 1/2 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and, with the mixer running, gradually add the molasses and milk. Mix until the dough is evenly moistened, about 20 seconds. Increase the speed to medium and mix until thoroughly combined, about 10 seconds.
2. Scrape the dough onto a work surface; divide it in half. Working with one portion at a time, shape the dough into two round disks. Cover them in plastic wrap and freeze until firm, 20 to 30 minutes. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough 2 hours or overnight.¹
3. Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line the two baking sheets with parchment paper.
4. Take the cookie dough out of the fridge and scoop a heaping tablespoon full of dough. Roll dough into a ball and be careful not to overwork the dough as it will lose its chill and get too warm.² Roll each dough ball in the granulated sugar until coated. Transfer ball to confectioners’ sugar and roll again until coated evenly. Place the coated dough balls 1-inch apart from each other on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the cookies until set in the centers, 12 minutes. Do not over bake. Cool the cookies on the sheets 2 minutes, then remove the cookies to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. Store gingerbread crinkle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutrition

Calories: 192kcal

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial for several reasons. First, it prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, helping them maintain their shape. Chilling also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more complex and delicious taste. If you’re short on time, 20-30 minutes in the freezer will do the trick. For an even better result, refrigerate the dough for 2 hours or overnight. The longer chilling time allows the dough to fully relax and the flavors to deepen.

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Why You’ll Love These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

I’ve tweaked and tested this recipe to perfection, and I know you’ll adore these cookies as much as I do. Here’s why my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a must-bake this season:

• Perfectly Spiced: The blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves creates that signature warm, comforting gingerbread flavor we all crave.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies have a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s both soft and chewy.
• Impressive Crinkled Appearance: The crackled sugar coating gives these cookies a beautiful, festive look that’s sure to impress.
• Festive Aroma: The intoxicating aroma of gingerbread spices will fill your kitchen, creating the perfect holiday atmosphere.

What Makes Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies So Special?

Crinkle cookies are believed to have originated in the early 20th century, and they quickly became a holiday favorite. The signature crinkled appearance comes from rolling the dough in sugar before baking; as the cookies bake, the outer layer cracks, creating a beautiful, snowy effect.

Gingerbread, with its rich history dating back to medieval times, has always been associated with festive celebrations. Combining these two traditions results in a cookie that’s both nostalgic and visually stunning.

For another festive and colorful holiday treat, consider this Amazing Christmas Cranberry Bars Recipe This Year.

The Secret to Perfect Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

The key to truly exceptional Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies lies in using quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in the final outcome:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies, creating a tender crumb.
• Dark Brown Sugar: Adds moisture, chewiness, and a deep, molasses-like flavor.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and contributes to their soft texture.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Cloves): These are the heart and soul of gingerbread, adding warmth, depth, and that signature festive aroma.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness, tenderness, and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Molasses: Contributes to the cookies’ color, moisture, and distinctive gingerbread flavor.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Used for the first coating, adding sweetness and a slight crunch.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: Creates the iconic crinkled effect as it cracks during baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the full list of what you’ll need to make these amazing cookies.

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150 g) packed dark brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons (170 g or 1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened, but still cool, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) unsulphured molasses ((not blackstrap))
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (60 g) confectioners’ sugar

Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools on hand will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what I recommend:

• Baking Sheets: Essential for baking the cookies evenly.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
• Electric Mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar much easier (hand or stand mixer works).

Optional Tools:

• Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Food Scale: For precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, delicious Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies in no time.

• With an electric mixer (either hand or stand) stir together the flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt at low speed until combined, about 20 seconds. Stop the mixer and add the butter pieces. Mix at medium-low speed until the mixture is sandy and resembles fine meal, about 1 1/2 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and, with the mixer running, gradually add the molasses and milk. Mix until the dough is evenly moistened, about 20 seconds. Increase the speed to medium and mix until thoroughly combined, about 10 seconds.
• Scrape the dough onto a work surface; divide it in half. Working with one portion at a time, shape the dough into two round disks. Cover them in plastic wrap and freeze until firm, 20 to 30 minutes. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough 2 hours or overnight.¹
• Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line the two baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Take the cookie dough out of the fridge and scoop a heaping tablespoon full of dough. Roll dough into a ball and be careful not to overwork the dough as it will lose its chill and get too warm.² Roll each dough ball in the granulated sugar until coated. Transfer ball to confectioners’ sugar and roll again until coated evenly. Place the coated dough balls 1-inch apart from each other on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake the cookies until set in the centers, 12 minutes. Do not over bake. Cool the cookies on the sheets 2 minutes, then remove the cookies to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. Store gingerbread crinkle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  For more treat and dessert ideas, explore these options in our treats and drinks category.

Pro Tips for Perfect Crinkles

Here are a couple of my tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly!

1. Chilling is Key: Chilling the dough is crucial for several reasons. First, it prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, helping them maintain their shape. Chilling also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more complex and delicious taste. If you’re short on time, 20-30 minutes in the freezer will do the trick. For an even better result, refrigerate the dough for 2 hours or overnight. The longer chilling time allows the dough to fully relax and the flavors to deepen.
2. Maximize the Crinkle: The science behind the cracking lies in the contrast between the moist dough and the dry sugar coating. As the cookies bake, the dough expands, causing the sugar coating to crack. For best results, use a generous amount of confectioners’ sugar and ensure the cookies are evenly coated. The finer the sugar, the better the crinkle. Also, humidity can affect the powdered sugar, so I make sure to store my sugar in a cool, dry place.

Spice Up Your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Feel free to experiment with the spice blend to suit your personal preferences. I use a combination of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves in this recipe, but you can also add other spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice. I recommend using 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves as a base, then adjusting from there.

Spices not only add flavor but also have potential health benefits. Cinnamon, for example, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger can aid digestion.

If you are looking for more sweet breads, try this Ultimate, Delicious Persimmon Bread Recipe.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with the best recipes, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

• Dough Too Sticky: If your dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes more manageable.
• Cookies Not Cracking: Ensure you’re using enough confectioners’ sugar and that the cookies are properly chilled.
• Cookies Spreading Too Thin: Make sure your butter is softened but still cool, and that you’ve chilled the dough adequately.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes, you might need to make substitutions based on dietary restrictions or what you have on hand. Here’s a handy guide:

Variations on Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative with variations. Here are some ideas:

• Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
• Nuts: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture.
• Different Spices: Experiment with spices like cardamom, nutmeg, or allspice.
• Flavored Extracts: Add a teaspoon of vanilla, almond, or orange extract to the dough.
• Fillings: Sandwich two cookies together with a cream cheese frosting or a gingerbread-flavored filling.

Healthier Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie Options

If you’re looking to make these cookies healthier, here are a few modifications:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
• Lower in Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar and granulated sugar by 1/4 cup each. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
• Vegan: Use vegan butter and substitute the milk with almond milk or soy milk.

Serving and Gifting Suggestions

These cookies are perfect for serving with a warm mug of hot chocolate or coffee. They also make a wonderful gift. Package them in a festive box or tin, and add a ribbon for a personal touch. Creative packaging ideas include using cellophane bags tied with twine, or placing the cookies in a decorative jar.

How to Store Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

To maintain their freshness and texture, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to two months. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies: Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional information per serving (serving size = 2 cookies):

• Calories: 200
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamins and Minerals: Varies depending on ingredients

Disclaimer: This is an estimate, and actual values may vary.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains the following common allergens:

• Gluten (from all-purpose flour)
• Dairy (from butter)

To avoid specific allergens, use the substitutions listed above.

More Gingerbread Recipes You’ll Love

If you love gingerbread as much as I do, check out these other delicious recipes on Delish Map:

• [Link to Gingerbread Cake Recipe]
• [Link to Gingerbread Loaf Recipe]

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies:

Conclusion

These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a warm, spiced hug in cookie form. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking these festive delights. I just know you’re going to love them!

Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite holiday baking memories? Do you have any special twists you like to add to your gingerbread cookies? Leave a comment below and let’s share our baking adventures! And if you try this recipe, be sure to tag me in your photos. I can’t wait to see your creations!

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