Introduction

Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing are the epitome of holiday baking. With their warm blend of spices—ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—these cookies are not only flavorful but also fill your kitchen with a festive aroma. They have a slightly crisp edge, a soft center, and a rich molasses sweetness that makes them unforgettable. Decorating them with royal icing adds a touch of artistry, allowing you to personalize each cookie with festive designs.

These cookies are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. Whether you’re baking with kids, hosting a holiday party, or preparing homemade gifts, gingerbread cookies embody the warmth and joy of the season.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines flavor, tradition, and creativity. The spice blend makes the cookies cozy and nostalgic, while the royal icing turns them into edible art. It’s not just about eating—it’s about making memories.

What makes them even more lovable is their versatility: they can be cut into fun shapes, decorated for any occasion, and enjoyed as both a snack and a centerpiece. These cookies are a symbol of celebration and togetherness.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Holiday Tradition: A recipe that brings festive cheer to your table.
• Flavorful & Aromatic: Rich spices and molasses create a warm, comforting taste.
• Fun & Creative: Decorating with royal icing is both delicious and artistic.
• Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully decorated cookies make thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Customizable: Change the shapes, colors, and icing designs for different occasions.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus 1–2 hours chilling)
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
• Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies (depending on size)
• Calories: ~150 kcal per cookie (with icing)
• Course: Dessert / Snack
• Cuisine: European / American Holiday Baking

Ingredients

For Gingerbread Cookies:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Royal Icing:

• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 large egg whites (or 4 tbsp meringue powder + 6 tbsp water)
• 1 tsp lemon juice or vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
3. Add egg, vanilla, and molasses. Beat until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients until dough forms.
5. Divide dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1–2 hours.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
4. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake

1. Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are firm but centers slightly soft.
2. Cool cookies completely on a wire rack before decorating.

Step 4: Make Royal Icing

1. In a bowl, whisk egg whites (or meringue powder mixture) until foamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon juice/vanilla.
3. Beat until glossy and thick (about 5 minutes).
4. Divide and color with food coloring if desired.

Step 5: Decorate

1. Transfer icing to piping bags with fine tips.
2. Outline cookies, fill in with icing, and decorate with details.
3. Allow icing to set completely before stacking or storing.

How to Serve

• Serve cookies as a festive dessert with hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea.
• Arrange decorated cookies on a holiday platter as a centerpiece.
• Wrap individually in cellophane bags with ribbons for gifting.

Recipe Tips

• Chill dough for at least 1 hour for easy rolling and crisp shapes.
• Roll dough evenly to avoid uneven baking.
• Use parchment paper for rolling to prevent sticking.
• Keep icing covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.
• Add edible glitter, sprinkles, or metallic decorations for extra flair.

Variations

• Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: Reduce baking time slightly for softer cookies.
• Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to dough.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water), and aquafaba for royal icing.
• Spiced Citrus Gingerbread: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for brightness.
• Sandwich Cookies: Spread cream cheese frosting between two cookies.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 week.
• Freezer (Cookies Only): Freeze undecorated cookies up to 2 months. Thaw before icing.
• Freezer (Dough): Freeze wrapped dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge before rolling.
• Royal Icing: Best used fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days.

Special Equipment Needed

• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (holiday shapes: gingerbread men, stars, trees)
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack
• Piping bags and decorating tips

FAQ

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before rolling and baking.

Q2: My cookies spread too much—what went wrong?
The dough may not have been chilled long enough. Chill before rolling and again before baking if needed.

Q3: Do I need molasses?
Yes, molasses is key for flavor and texture. If unavailable, substitute with dark corn syrup + brown sugar, though flavor won’t be the same.

Q4: Can I use store-bought icing?
Yes, but homemade royal icing gives better consistency and dries firm for decorating.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing are more than just cookies—they’re a holiday tradition that brings people together. With their spiced warmth, creative decorating potential, and ability to double as edible gifts or decorations, these cookies are truly special. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a holiday pro, this recipe will help you create beautiful, delicious cookies that capture the spirit of the season.