Gingerbread Spice Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a timeless favorite during the holidays. They’re easy to shape, versatile for decorating, and beloved by kids and adults alike. But what if you could combine the buttery sweetness of sugar cookies with the warm, comforting spices of gingerbread?

Enter gingerbread spice sugar cookies. This recipe infuses traditional sugar cookies with cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of cloves, creating a mild yet festive flavor that’s perfect for Christmas. These cookies are soft, hold their shape beautifully for decorating, and are a delightful addition to holiday cookie trays.

Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing gifts for neighbors, or looking for a simple yet festive dessert, these cookies strike the perfect balance between sweetness and holiday spice.

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Ingredients for Gingerbread Spice Sugar Cookies

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter for vegan option)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for egg-free version)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon molasses (optional for deeper flavor)

Optional Decorating Ingredients

• Royal icing or store-bought icing

• Sprinkles or colored sugar

• Edible glitter or small candy decorations

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Gingerbread Spice Sugar Cookies

Preparing the Dough

Start by combining all dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg—in a large bowl. Whisk to ensure even spice distribution.

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg (or applesauce), vanilla extract, and molasses if using. Beat until well combined.

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to make rolling easier.

Rolling Out and Shaping

Lightly flour your surface or use parchment paper. Roll dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters—stars, trees, hearts, or gingerbread shapes—for a Christmas-ready batch.

Transfer cookies carefully to a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for slight expansion during baking.

Baking the Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender texture. Cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.

Decorating Ideas

Once cooled, cookies can be decorated with royal icing, sprinkles, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Let your creativity shine: pipe festive patterns, add candy details, or create themed cookie sets for gifting.

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Tips for Baking and Decorating Success

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerated dough is easier to roll and cut. It prevents cookies from spreading too much.

• Uniform Thickness: Roll the dough evenly for consistent baking. Use guides or rolling pin rings if available.

• Cookie Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Give cookies space on the baking sheet to prevent sticking or uneven baking.

• Use Parchment or Silicone Mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

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Flavor Enhancements and Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of black pepper or cardamom for a subtle warmth.

• Citrus Touch: Mix in 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a fresh flavor.

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise inside each cookie.

• Vegan Option: Replace butter with plant-based butter and egg with applesauce or a flax egg.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust moisture if necessary.

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Fun Decorating Ideas for Holiday Baking

Decorating sugar cookies is half the fun of holiday baking. Here are creative ideas to make your gingerbread spice cookies festive:

• Classic Royal Icing: Use piping bags for intricate designs, snowflake patterns, or outlines.

• Sprinkle Fun: Press sprinkles or colored sugar onto wet icing for extra sparkle.

• Layered Icing: Use multiple colors for a 3D effect or ombré designs.

• Festive Shapes: Mix cookie shapes for a full holiday display—stars, trees, snowmen, and candy canes.

• Personalized Cookies: Add initials or names for gifts or holiday parties.

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Benefits of Gingerbread Spice Sugar Cookies

These cookies are more than just a treat—they offer a delightful holiday experience:

• Mildly Spiced: Perfect for those who enjoy the warmth of gingerbread without an intense spice.

• Kid-Friendly: Easy to cut and decorate, ideal for baking with children.

• Gift-Ready: Beautiful shapes and decorations make these cookies perfect for gifting.

• Versatile: Great for cookie swaps, dessert tables, or cozy winter snacking.

• Beginner-Friendly: Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe accessible to all skill levels.

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Common Questions About Gingerbread Spice Sugar Cookies

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Roll, cut, and bake when ready.

Can these cookies be frozen?
Absolutely. Freeze unbaked cookie dough or baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Do these cookies spread while baking?
Minimal spreading occurs if dough is chilled and rolled evenly. Avoid over-soft butter to maintain shape.

How can I make them extra soft?
Bake slightly shorter than usual and avoid overmixing the dough. Adding a touch of molasses can also soften texture.

Are these cookies suitable for decorating with kids?
Yes! The mild spices and sturdy dough make them ideal for little hands to cut, decorate, and enjoy.

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Creative Ways to Serve and Gift

• Holiday Cookie Trays: Mix with other festive cookies for a colorful display.

• Gift Boxes or Bags: Stack cookies with parchment layers for beautiful homemade gifts.

• Cookie Decorating Party: Host a small event with friends or family and let everyone decorate their own cookies.

• Pairing with Beverages: Serve with hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or holiday teas.

• Festive Dessert Platter: Combine with chocolates, nuts, and dried fruit for a complete holiday dessert spread.

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Making Baking with Kids Fun

Gingerbread spice sugar cookies are perfect for family baking days:

• Hands-On Fun: Kids can help roll, cut, and decorate.

• Learning Opportunity: Measuring ingredients teaches math skills, while following instructions builds confidence.

• Creative Outlet: Decorating allows children to express themselves through colors and designs.

• Memory-Making: Holiday baking becomes a cherished family tradition, creating lasting memories.

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Conclusion

Gingerbread spice sugar cookies are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, offering the perfect balance of buttery sweetness and festive holiday spices. They’re soft, hold their shape beautifully, and are ideal for decorating, gifting, or enjoying as a cozy winter treat.

With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of decorating possibilities, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels. These cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re a fun, creative, and memorable addition to your holiday celebrations. Whether shared with family, friends, or neighbors, gingerbread spice sugar cookies bring warmth, flavor, and holiday cheer to every bite.