There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, especially during the holiday season. Classic gingerbread crinkle cookies combine the warmth of gingerbread spices with the irresistible texture of crinkly, sugar-coated goodness. These cookies are as delightful to eat as they are to make, bringing joy and a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Ready to create a batch of these holiday favorites? Let’s dive into the recipe and all the tips you need for success.

Why You’ll Love Classic Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are the perfect holiday treat for so many reasons:

• Rich Flavor: Packed with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, they embody the classic gingerbread taste.
• Beautiful Presentation: The crinkled sugar coating adds a festive touch.
• Versatile: Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or a cozy night at home.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for any baker.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

For the Dough:

Ingredient	Amount
All-Purpose Flour	4 1/2 cups
Dark Brown Sugar (packed)	1 1/3 cups
Ground Cinnamon	2 teaspoons
Ground Ginger	3 teaspoons
Salt	3/4 teaspoon
Baking Soda	1 teaspoon
Ground Cloves	1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted Butter (cold, cubed)	1 cup
Unsulphured Molasses	1/2 cup
Vanilla Extract	1 teaspoon
Milk	1/4 cup

For the Coating:

Ingredient	Amount
Powdered Sugar	1/2 cup
Granulated Sugar	1/2 cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Tools

• Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

• In a mixing bowl, beat the cold, cubed butter, dark brown sugar, and molasses until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
• Add the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until just combined.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, ginger, salt, baking soda, and cloves.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. The dough may seem crumbly at first but will come together.

4. Shape the Cookies

• Scoop out 3-tablespoon portions of dough and roll them into balls.
• Roll each ball in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar to coat.
• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your palm.

5. Chill the Dough

• Refrigerate the dough balls for at least 1 hour. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the crinkle effect.

6. Bake the Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

• Use Cold Butter: This keeps the cookies from spreading too much and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for the crinkle effect.
• Even Coating: Rolling the dough balls in both granulated and powdered sugar ensures a beautiful, snowy finish.
• Don’t Overbake: The cookies should be soft in the center for the best texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cookie
Calories	150
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	22g
Protein	2g
Sugar	14g

FAQs About Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

2. Can I freeze the cookies?

Absolutely. Freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. What can I use instead of molasses?

Dark corn syrup or maple syrup can be used as substitutes, but the flavor will differ slightly.

4. How do I store leftover cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps keep them soft.

5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

6. What type of sugar works best for coating?

Use fine granulated sugar for the first coat and sifted powdered sugar for the second coat to achieve the best crinkle effect.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Now that you know how to make classic gingerbread crinkle cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking. These cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging yourself during the holiday season. Snap a picture of your creations and share them with your loved ones. Ready to make your kitchen smell like the holidays? Let’s get baking!

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